The best song of the last 10 years….
It’s a big statement. 10 years is a long time. You might be wondering which song I’m talking about…
‘Seventeen Going Under’ is the debut single from the album of the same name by Geordie singer songwriter Sam Fender.
Now why do I think it’s the best song of the last decade. Firstly the song has done very well commercially, it broke down traditional barriers faced by indie and alternative artists. Mainstream radio in the U.K. love the song, and due to its popularity on social media especially tik tok, the song reached the Top Ten on the Official Singles Charts.
Lyrically the song talks about growing up. In a working class town in the North East of England, and the trials and tribulations faced. The devastation caused by the Tory Government, illness both physical and mental, drugs, money problems. The innocence of youth. Sam himself as described the song as autobiographical, and the experiences mentioned as being true.
Sam paints a picture of 21st Century Britain and the feelings faced by working class people, not just in the North West but across the country. The tales of 17 year old Sam in North Shields have resonated with many.
In a time where politicians, and senior figures in society have abandoned, forgotten and pretend the working class don’t exist. A 28 year old lad from Newcastle, armed with a guitar and a lot to say. Provided a much needed voice.