“1979” is a song by the American alternative rock band The Smashing Pumpkins, released on January 23, 1996 as the second single from their third studio album, “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness.” The song, written by lead vocalist and guitarist Billy Corgan, stands out as one of the band’s most well-known and enduring tracks, capturing a sense of youthful nostalgia and suburban adolescence.
“1979” was inspired by Corgan’s memories of being a teenager in the Chicago suburbs. He aimed to capture the essence of that period in his life, focusing on the feelings of freedom, boredom, and discovery that accompany adolescence. The song’s composition is notable for its dreamy, ethereal quality, blending elements of alternative rock, shoegaze, and electronic music. It features a repetitive, hypnotic guitar riff, a steady drum machine beat, and layered vocals, creating a lush, atmospheric sound.
The lyrics of “1979” evoke a sense of nostalgia and a yearning for simpler times. They describe scenes of suburban life, late-night adventures, and the fleeting moments of youth. Phrases like “we don’t even care to shake these zipper blues” and “we don’t know just where our bones will rest” reflect a carefree attitude and a sense of timelessness. The song’s title refers to the year 1979, which was a formative period in Corgan’s youth, symbolizing a time of innocence and possibility.
“1979” was a commercial success, becoming one of The Smashing Pumpkins’ highest-charting singles. It reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped both the Modern Rock Tracks, and Alternative Airplay charts. Internationally, the song also performed well, charting in multiple countries and solidifying the band’s global appeal. Its success helped “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness” achieve multi-platinum status.
The music video for “1979,” directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris. The “1979” video was highly acclaimed. It won the MTV Video Music Award for Best Alternative Video in 1996.
The Smashing Pumpkins – 1979 – Lyrics