Green Day

Lyrics

[Intro]
Hey, Gloria, are you standing close to the edge?
Look out to the setting sun, the brink of your vision
Eternal youth is a landscape of a lie
The cracks of my skin can prove, as the years will testify
Say your prayers and light a fire, we're gonna start a war
Your slogan's a gun for hire, it's what we waited for...
Hey, Gloria, this is why we're on the edge
The fight of our lives' been drawn to this undying love

[Chorus]
Gloria! ¡Viva la Gloria!
You blast your name in graffiti on the walls
Fallin' in broken glass that's slashing through your spirit
I can hear it like a jilted crowd!
Gloria! Where are you, Gloria?
You found a home in all your scars and ammunition
You made your bed in salad days amongst the ruins
Ashes to ashes of our youth!

[Bridge]
She smashed her knuckles into winter (Gloria!)
As autumn's wind fades into black
She is the saint of all the sinners (Gloria!)
The one that's fallen through the cracks
So don't put away your burnin' light!
[Chorus]
Gloria! Where are you, Gloria?
Don't lose your faith to your lost naiveté
Weather the storm, and don't look back on last November
When your banners were burnin' down!
Gloria! ¡Viva la Gloria!
Send me your amnesty down to the broken hearted
Bring us the season that we always will remember
Don't let the bonfires go out!

[Outro]
So, Gloria, send out your message of
The light that shadows in the night
Gloria, where's your undying love?
Tell me the story of your life, your life!

Green Day's ¡Viva la Gloria! is a captivating song that takes listeners on a journey through the lives of two protagonists, Christian and Gloria. Serving as the fourth track on the album "21st Century Breakdown," this song marks the turning point in the album's narrative, where the story of Christian and Gloria truly unfolds.

While "21st Century Breakdown" provides Christian's backstory, ¡Viva la Gloria! delves deeper into his character, revealing parallels to lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong's personal growth. This connection adds an extra layer of authenticity and depth to the song, making it even more resonant.

¡Viva la Gloria! introduces Gloria as a rebellious and enigmatic figure, reminiscent of Whatsername from Green Day's previous album, "American Idiot." She embodies the characteristics of a strong-willed and independent woman, leaving a lasting impact on both Christian and the listeners. As the song progresses, Christian's admiration for Gloria transforms into a deep reverence, perceiving her as his personal messiah.

About ¡Viva la Gloria!

Green Day's ¡Viva la Gloria! is a standout track on the album "21st Century Breakdown." This song not only showcases the band's musical prowess but also highlights their storytelling abilities. With its infectious energy and thought-provoking lyrics, ¡Viva la Gloria! captivates listeners from the very first note.

The song opens with a vibrant guitar riff, setting the tone for the upbeat and rebellious nature of Gloria's character. The driving rhythm section propels the song forward, creating an intense and energetic atmosphere. Billie Joe Armstrong's distinct vocals infuse the lyrics with raw emotion, perfectly capturing the turmoil and passion of the protagonists' journey.

Lyrically, ¡Viva la Gloria! paints a vivid picture of the relationship between Christian and Gloria. It explores themes of love, identity, and the search for something greater. The lyrics intricately weave the story of these two characters, inviting listeners to dive deep into their world.

The song's chorus, with its anthemic nature and infectious melody, is impossible to resist. It becomes a rallying cry for the listeners, further immersing them in the narrative. As the song progresses, the intensity builds, reflecting the emotional turmoil experienced by the characters.

Musically, ¡Viva la Gloria! showcases Green Day's signature punk rock sound, infused with melodic sensibilities. The guitar work is dynamic and skillfully executed, providing the backbone of the song. The bassline adds depth and groove, while the drums drive the rhythm with precision and power.

Throughout the song, the instrumentation perfectly complements the lyrical themes, creating a cohesive and enthralling listening experience. The seamless interplay between the band members showcases their synergy and mastery of their craft.

What sets ¡Viva la Gloria! apart is its ability to transcend the boundaries of a typical rock song. It seamlessly combines elements of punk, pop, and rock opera into a cohesive musical piece. This fusion of genres adds complexity and depth to the song, captivating a wide range of listeners.

¡Viva la Gloria! is a testament to Green Day's evolution as both musicians and storytellers. It encapsulates the band's ability to create music that not only entertains but also provokes thought and emotion. Whether you're a die-hard Green Day fan or a newcomer to their music, ¡Viva la Gloria! will leave an indelible mark on your musical journey.

So, turn up the volume, let the infectious energy of ¡Viva la Gloria! wash over you, and immerse yourself in the captivating story of Christian and Gloria. Allow Green Day to take you on a wild ride filled with rebellion, emotion, and the search for something greater. This song is a true masterpiece that solidifies Green Day's place in the annals of music history.

• Release Date: May 12, 2009
• Artist: Green Day