"The Sound of the Crowd" is a song by The Human League, released in 1981. The lyrics depict the experience of being part of a vibrant and lively crowd, where people gather to have fun and enjoy themselves. The song encourages listeners to join in and participate, highlighting the sense of unity and connection that emerges from being part of a collective. The opening line, "Put your hand in a party wave, pass around," suggests the idea of everyone joining together, creating a sense of togetherness by physically connecting. "Make a shroud pulling combs through a backwash frame" and "find the copies in a carbon mount" are metaphorical phrases that emphasize the shared experiences and similarities among individuals in the crowd. It signifies the common bond and the feeling of belonging to a larger community. The lyrics also touch upon the notion of self-expression within the crowd. "Stroke a pocket with a print of a laughing sound" suggests that people should freely express their joy and laughter, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the crowd. The chorus emphasizes the importance of being part of this energetic gathering. "Get around town, where the people look good, where the music is loud" encourages listeners to be present in such gatherings and celebrate the vibrant music and positive atmosphere. The repetition of "get around town" reinforces the idea of actively participating and not being afraid to explore different places and experiences. The lines "The shades from a pencil peer" and "A fold in an eyelid brushed with fear" describe the observations and emotions that can be witnessed within the crowd. It depicts the diversity and range of experiences people bring to the gathering, even including hints of apprehension or vulnerability. The lyrics "Get in line now, stay in time with the rhythm and rhyme" suggest the importance of following the crowd and embracing the rhythm of the music and atmosphere. It encourages listeners to surrender to the energy and let themselves be carried away by the collective experience. Overall, "The Sound of the Crowd" is a celebration of the power and joy that comes from gathering together with others in a vibrant and lively atmosphere, finding a sense of belonging and unity, and adding your voice to the collective sound.
