The Jam's Tribute To Buckler

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Post on Feb 19, 2025

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The Jam's Tribute to Buckler: A Deep Dive into "That's Entertainment"

The Jam, one of the most influential British bands of the late 70s and early 80s, weren't known for overt tributes. Their music, a potent blend of mod revival energy, punk aggression, and sophisticated songwriting, largely spoke for itself. However, a closer look at their 1980 album, Sound Affects, reveals a subtle yet powerful nod to a seemingly unlikely muse: the advertising jingle. Specifically, the track "That's Entertainment" pays homage to the iconic Buckler's advertising campaign.

Decoding the Buckler Connection in "That's Entertainment"

While not explicitly stated, the lyrical and musical elements of "That's Entertainment" strongly suggest a deliberate reference to the catchy Buckler's lager jingle. The song's repetitive, almost hypnotic structure mirrors the memorable simplicity of many jingles. The driving rhythm and insistent bassline evoke the feeling of a catchy tune relentlessly stuck in your head, a feeling familiar to anyone who's ever heard a particularly effective advertisement.

Lyrical Clues and the "That's Entertainment" Refrain

The repeated refrain, "That's entertainment," is far from coincidental. It’s a phrase perfectly suited to the advertising world, highlighting the intended pleasure and escapism offered by the product. The lyrics themselves paint a picture of fleeting, superficial pleasures, very much in line with the message often found in advertising. The references to "shiny cars" and "pretty girls" allude to the aspirational imagery commonly used in commercials. It’s not a direct quote, but rather a capture of the essence of the Buckler's campaign.

The Musical Parallel to Buckler's Catchy Tune

Beyond the lyrics, the musical style of "That's Entertainment" also echoes the approach of jingle composition. The concise song structure, memorable melody, and relentlessly upbeat tempo align perfectly with the need to capture the audience's attention in a short, impactful way – the very goal of a catchy advertising jingle. The song's overall simplicity belies a clever and sophisticated commentary on the power and pervasiveness of advertising itself.

The Jam's Social Commentary Through "That's Entertainment"

The genius of The Jam's tribute lies not in mere imitation, but in the band's shrewd use of the Buckler's jingle as a springboard for social commentary. By appropriating the familiar structure and style of a commercial jingle, they subvert its intended purpose. The song isn’t an endorsement; rather, it's a wry observation on the pervasive influence of advertising on modern life, highlighting its ability to create artificial desires and superficial satisfaction.

A Critique of Consumerism and Media Saturation

The repetition and simplistic nature of the song ironically reflect the repetitive and often shallow nature of the advertising it parodies. The Jam cleverly uses this repetition to highlight the repetitive nature of consumer culture itself, constantly bombarded by messages promising happiness through consumption.

The Lasting Legacy of "That's Entertainment"

"That's Entertainment" isn't just a clever musical homage; it's a testament to The Jam's sharp intellect and ability to weave social commentary into their catchy tunes. While the Buckler’s connection might be subtle, it adds a fascinating layer to the song's interpretation. This subtle tribute highlights the band’s keen understanding of popular culture and their capacity to engage with it in a meaningful and critical way. It continues to resonate with listeners today, serving as a reminder of the power of advertising and the importance of critical thinking in a media-saturated world.

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