This song was written about the then-new Internet Radio stuff that was going on, like East Village Radio and all the College and indie stations that had started to stream on the web. I occasionally DJ'd at parties and bars and always loved the idea of having my own radio program. I make a reference to Ike Turner's song "Rocket 88" which many believe to be one of the first rock 'n roll songs ever recorded.
lyrics
I wake up in the morning 'bout the break of day
And I walk down to the street corner where I stay
The record's on the stereo, turn it on the way to go to work
Oh I'm looking for a better gig, playing on the downstream radio
And I'm snakin' past the party, party's going late
And I'm spinning my DJ records and it's sounding great
Well I'm breaking down in Chinatown, walk in EVR to see my friends
So I'm looking for a better gig playing on the downstream radio
Well I'm playing on the station, I got no time to eat
And I'm playing on the radio complete
I'm back on the street and I got no place to go
Well I've got no place to hide cuz I've been on radio
Well I've go this new uncanny sound coming from my Rocket 88
And I'm looking for a better gig playing on the downstream radio
I'm watching my TV and it's saying nothing to me
credits
from The Streets Are For Keeps,
released September 10, 2005
Vocals, guitars, bass played by Francis Friday. Drums by Matt Carlin, Sax by Jon Cole.
Modular synths sparkle amidst piano, vibes, and other organic instruments stringing together constellations of sound. Bandcamp New & Notable Sep 22, 2023