The Late Greats Lyrics

Lyric discussion by distopiandreamguy 

Cover art for The Late Greats lyrics by Wilco

While I don't think Tweedy or any of the other guys in Wilco are too thrilled about corporate radio or the record industry, I don't think this song is really about either one. It seems almost like they are making fun of the people who claim nothing good is on the radio, and that the only good music comes from obscure, unattractive bands. This is further supported by the final verse which expands the subject from just songs on the radio to all songs that could be sung. If the best songs won't even GET sung, what is the point of caring what makes it to the radio?

Essentially, I think they are making the point that you can't go through life worrying about these imaginary "bests". I wish I could say I was at this point, but I doubt I was the only person to go online and google the names he mentions in this song.

Music is susceptible to interpretations and this song is indirect. With those two elements combined you have a song that breaks the boundaries of meaning. If you hate corporate records you'll see this as a slight against "Pro-Tools" and the Pro- Tools that run the industry. If you hate snobby Indie Rockers then you'll see it as a slight against them. The meaning lies in the agenda of the listener. From what I gathered, Tweedy is not a Dylan type lyricist. Unlike Dylan, he isn't trying to loose you in the words, he wants you along for the ride. So, his...