Are the lyrics in "Teardrop" by Massive Attack "feathers" or "fearless"

The Lyrics of “Teardrop” by Massive Attack: “Feathers” or “Fearless”?

Introduction

The song “Teardrop” by Massive Attack is a beloved single that has captivated listeners since its release in 1998. The lyrics of this song have sparked a debate surrounding a specific word choice in the chorus: “feathers” or “fearless.” In this article, we will explore the available resources to shed light on this question and provide a definitive answer.

Examining the Lyrics

To determine the accurate lyrics of “Teardrop,” we turn to reliable sources such as Genius Lyrics, AZLyrics, and SongMeanings. These platforms provide access to the official lyrics and interpretations of songs.

The chorus of “Teardrop” repeats the line “Teardrop on the fire, fearless on my breath.” This consistent usage of “fearless” in the lyrics across multiple sources suggests that it is the intended word in the song. Therefore, we can conclude that the lyrics in “Teardrop” by Massive Attack use the word “fearless.”

Additional Insights

While settling the debate about the specific word choice, it is worth exploring other interesting facts about the song “Teardrop” to provide a comprehensive understanding of its significance.

1. Composition and Musical Elements:
   • “Teardrop” features a mesmerizing harpsichord riff and somber piano chords that create a distinct and haunting atmosphere.
2. Evolution of the Song:
   • The working title for the song was originally “No Don’t,” highlighting the creative process and evolution of the track.
3. Vocalist Selection:
   • There was a difference of opinion within Massive Attack regarding the choice of vocalist for “Teardrop.” While Mushroom initially favored Madonna, both 3D and Daddy G preferred Elizabeth Fraser of the Cocteau Twins. Ultimately, Elizabeth Fraser’s ethereal vocal style became an integral part of the song’s emotional impact.
4. Personal Influence:
   • During the recording of “Teardrop,” Elizabeth Fraser learned about the tragic death of her friend and former lover, Jeff Buckley. This personal loss likely influenced her performance, adding a deeper layer of emotion to the song.
5. Use in Popular Culture:
   • “Teardrop” has been featured in various TV series, including “House,” “Cold Case,” and the first season of “Prison Break.” However, its use in “House, M.D.” sparked controversy, leading the band to discontinue its inclusion after the first season.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the lyrics of “Teardrop” by Massive Attack consistently use the word “fearless” in the chorus. This choice, along with the song’s captivating musical elements and the personal experiences of the vocalist, contributes to its enduring popularity and emotional impact.

Sources:

• Genius Lyrics: https://genius.com/Massive-attack-teardrop-lyrics
• AZLyrics: https://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/massiveattack/teardrop.html
• SongMeanings: https://songmeanings.com/songs/view/44600/

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about the Lyrics of “Teardrop” by Massive Attack

Question 1: What are the lyrics in the chorus of “Teardrop”?

Answer: The lyrics in the chorus of “Teardrop” by Massive Attack are “Teardrop on the fire, fearless on my breath.”

Question 2: Is the word “feathers” or “fearless” used in the lyrics?

Answer: The word used in the lyrics of “Teardrop” is “fearless.” Multiple reliable sources consistently provide this interpretation.

Question 3: Who is the vocalist in “Teardrop”?

Answer: The vocals in “Teardrop” are performed by Elizabeth Fraser of the Scottish band Cocteau Twins.

Question 4: What are some notable musical elements in “Teardrop”?

Answer: “Teardrop” features a captivating harpsichord riff and somber piano chords, which contribute to its distinct and haunting atmosphere.

Question 5: What is the background story behind the song?

Answer: The song “Teardrop” was written in 1998 and carries emotional weight due to Elizabeth Fraser learning about the death of her friend and former lover, Jeff Buckley, during the recording process.

Question 6: Has “Teardrop” been used in popular culture?

Answer: Yes, “Teardrop” has been featured in television series such as “House,” “Cold Case,” and the first season of “Prison Break.” However, its use in “House, M.D.” generated controversy, leading to its discontinuation after the first season.

Question 7: What was the initial title of the song?

Answer: “Teardrop” had the working title of “No Don’t” before it was finalized as the official title.

Question 8: Were there any disagreements regarding the choice of vocalist for the song?

Answer: Yes, there was a difference of opinion within Massive Attack. Mushroom initially wanted Madonna to be the vocalist, but 3D and Daddy G preferred Elizabeth Fraser, ultimately leading to her selection.