The song "Egyptian Cowboy" by Electric Six tells a story of a protagonist living in Detroit, a city that is depicted as chaotic and plagued with challenges. The lyrics paint a picture of a dystopian environment where strange events occur on a Detroit bridge and toxic waste is everywhere. The protagonist encounters a mysterious woman who claims that there is no such thing as an Egyptian cowboy, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. She also mentions that the protagonist's appearance won't save him from the city's troubles unless he is willing to kill. The song suggests that the city could benefit from a woman's touch, implying that a different perspective or approach could improve the circumstances. The lyrics also express the protagonist's desire for excitement and danger, but lament the lack of people on the public transit system, symbolizing stagnation and a feeling of being stuck. The protagonist's thoughts turn to music, emphasizing their role as a songwriter. They mention a music workshop run by elves and the production of numerous records. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the commercialization of music or the pressure to constantly create new content. In the chorus, the protagonist acknowledges that time is passing, and they find themselves in the same bar, seemingly waiting for life to pass them by. They toast to themselves, expressing a mixture of self-deprecation and defiance. The woman who closes the protagonist's tab adds another layer to the song's narrative. She mentions that there is no such thing as an electric tuba and warns against diving in the Detroit River. She sarcastically suggests that the protagonist is only alive because they are needed to kill, further emphasizing the chaotic and dangerous nature of the city. The lyrics continue to depict the protagonist's songs as lies consumed by uncultured individuals. The mention of Canadian lies could be a satirical reference to the perceived falseness or superficiality of popular music. The song concludes with a call to action, urging the listener to shake a tambourine or shaker machine. This may be seen as a metaphor for creating change or embracing a more active role in shaping one's destiny. In summary, "Egyptian Cowboy" portrays a grim and eccentric version of Detroit. It explores themes of stagnation, the desire for excitement, and the challenges of artistry. The song's lyrics are cryptic and open to interpretation, leaving room for individual understanding and meaning.
