Song Stories: Blossoms: Charlemagne

Blossoms have released their fifth studio album 'Gary' today (20th September 2024) this post is all about their single Charlemagne. The bands defining single. Bursting with infectious synths, jangly guitars, and a hook that would stay with listeners long after the track ended, "Charlemagne" set Blossoms on a trajectory toward stardom, earning them recognition as one of the UK's most exciting indie pop acts. With a sound that blended 80s synth-pop, 90s Britpop, and a distinctly modern indie edge.

The band formed in Stockport in 2013, with the group consisting of five friends  Tom Ogden (vocals), Charlie Salt (bass), Josh Dewhurst (lead guitar), Joe Donovan (drums), and Myles Kellock (keyboards). 

"Charlemagne" isn’t just a fun and upbeat indie tune—its title is a nod to the historic figure Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor. While the song's lyrics don’t directly address the medieval ruler, the title evokes a sense of grandeur and timelessness.

The songs inital title was 'Kingdom Reigned' until Tom's brother stepped in. 

The band’s vocalist told Edith Bowman: “Yes, Charlemagne is about the King of the Franks circa 1814 AD. I got it off me brother. He heard me writing the tune and he was like, ‘what that you’re doing there?’

“I told him it was it was a new tune I was writing and he studies history and it had the line about a kingdom reigned and he asked if I’d ever heard of Charlemagne, so I thought I’d have that.
“So I used it a metaphor for talking about worshipping someone like a king and it works quite nicely really.

Away from helping us learn about historical figures. "Charlemagne" is a punchy indie radio friendly hit. The choruses repetitive nature makes the track an ear worm, and almost impossible not to sing along to.

"Charlemagne" became a breakout hit for Blossoms, reaching No. 98 on the UK Singles Chart and earning them widespread acclaim. More importantly, it helped propel their self-titled debut album to No. 1 in the UK upon its release in 2016. Critics praised the song for its polished sound and undeniable catchiness, with NME hailing it as a "perfect slice of synth-pop."

For Blossoms, "Charlemagne" marked the beginning of a new chapter. It solidified their status as one of the leading voices in the indie scene, garnering them a devoted fanbase and leading to a Mercury Prize nomination for their debut album. The track became a fan favorite, often serving as the final song of their live shows, with audiences chanting along to every word.

It's one of the very best songs of the 2010's, it's an anthem of modern indie brilliance, a blend of nostalgia and innovation that exemplifies Blossoms' signature style.

Thank you for reading 

Jack x