“Song 2” is a high-energy alternative rock and Britpop song by British band Blur, released in April 1997 as the second single from their self-titled fifth album, Blur. The song became one of the band’s most recognizable and commercially successful tracks, known for its loud, distorted guitars, raw energy, and iconic “Woo-hoo!” chorus.
Song 2 is intentionally nonsensical and abstract, with Damon Albarn delivering lines in a slurred, almost sarcastic manner. The lyrics appear to parody the loud-quiet-loud dynamic of American grunge music, particularly bands like Nirvana and Pixies, with Albarn describing a chaotic, euphoric rush of sensation.
The song features heavily distorted guitars, a pounding drumbeat, and an explosive chorus, creating a gritty, punk-like intensity. Clocking in at just 2 minutes and 2 seconds, the song was meant as a tongue-in-cheek take on the American alternative rock scene, yet ironically, it became Blur’s biggest hit in the U.S.
The song was a major commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart and breaking into the Top 10 in several countries. In the U.S., it became a modern rock radio staple, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart and gaining massive exposure through films, commercials, and video games.