The song "Rock Show" by Grinspoon is primarily about the power and control in the music industry, as well as the superficiality and lack of authenticity often associated with it. The lyrics open with the suggestion of using drugs (pills) to print money, implying a sense of corruption and artificiality in the pursuit of financial success. The line "In the end it's all the same" suggests that regardless of how one attains wealth or fame, it ultimately leads to a sense of emptiness. The phrase "keep on looking at the weather vane" symbolizes the constant change and unpredictability within the industry, where trends and popularity shift frequently. "Time controlling, not worth knowing" implies that the passage of time and the fleeting nature of success in the music industry are not worth focusing on or investing in deeply. The chorus repeats the phrase "You don't owe me, you can't sell that, still controlling in the format." This can be interpreted as a critique of the industry's control over artists and their creativity. The concept of "selling out" or compromising artistic integrity for commercial success is condemned. The line "Get in a rock show" suggests that participating in the industry is one way to gain recognition and success, but it comes at a price. The line "There's another fine reason" hints at the allure of fame and the desire to be a part of the rock show, despite its drawbacks. The second verse introduces the idea of a joker playing jokes and a smoker indulging in substances, symbolizing the reckless and often self-destructive behavior associated with the rock and roll lifestyle. The line "Stars keep falling from the sky, people watch and don't ask why" points to the fascination with celebrities and their actions, even if they may not always be deserving of admiration. The repeated line "You don't own me, you can't sell that, still controlling in the format" reinforces the message that artistic integrity and individuality should not be compromised for the sake of fitting into the industry's mold. In the final chorus, the lyrics emphasize that the reasons one might have for participating in the rock show are undefined and superficial, suggesting a lack of purpose or substance in the pursuit of fame. Overall, "Rock Show" critiques the music industry, highlighting its controlling nature and the sacrifices that artists might make to achieve success. It conveys a sense of disillusionment and urges listeners to question the motives and authenticity of the industry as a whole.
