Safe And Sound

"Safe and Sound" by Capital Cities is a buoyant anthem celebrating the profound security found in a strong, loving relationship. The song's core message is one of mutual support and unwavering loyalty in the face of adversity. Lyrically, it portrays a bond so resilient that it can withstand any challenge, from metaphorical 'hurricanes of frowns' to apocalyptic events like a 'falling sky'. The recurring promise, 'I know that we'll be safe and sound,' serves as the song's central thesis, offering a powerful sense of reassurance and comfort. One of the band members, Ryan Merchant, explained that the song is an antidote to the tendency to view times as exclusively bleak, highlighting that there is much to be positive about. It's a declaration that even in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty ('a tidal wave of mystery'), the presence of a trusted companion provides an unshakeable foundation of safety and love. The theme extends to the idea of love transcending even death, as suggested by the line, 'Even if we're six feet underground / I know that we'll be safe and sound'. This transforms the song from a simple love song into a powerful statement on the enduring nature of human connection.

The song unfolds as a declaration of unwavering support and enduring partnership. The narrator offers to be a source of strength and fulfillment for another, promising to lift them up, show them whatever they wish to see, and take them wherever they desire to go. This person, in return, is seen as a source of luck and stability. This mutual assurance forms the core of their bond, a sanctuary that remains impenetrable even when faced with catastrophic events. The imagery of a falling sky or a 'hurricane of frowns'—representing immense external pressure and widespread negativity—is rendered powerless against their unity. They are confident in their shared safety and soundness.

This promise of security extends beyond immediate threats and into the ultimate unknown: death. The lyric 'Even if we're six feet underground, I know that we'll be safe and sound' acts as a powerful metaphor for a connection that transcends physical existence, suggesting a spiritual or emotional continuity that cannot be broken. It's a testament to a love and loyalty so profound that it defies mortality itself. The narrator further pledges to provide love amidst a 'tidal wave of mystery,' acknowledging the uncertainties and complexities of life. Yet, through all this ambiguity, the one constant is the presence of their partner standing beside them. This unwavering companionship is the ultimate anchor. The song repeatedly returns to the central, powerful refrain, 'I know that we'll be safe and sound,' turning it into a mantra of hope, resilience, and the profound peace found in a deeply committed relationship.

"Safe and Sound" was written and produced by the members of Capital Cities, Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian. The duo met on Craigslist in 2008 and initially worked as commercial jingle writers. The song originated in 2009 from a collection of musical ideas they had, with a desire to create something positive but with a 'dark twist.' The track went through about ten different versions before reaching its final form. A key decision in its development was adding the prominent trumpet hook, which was created on a synth initially and became one of the song's most defining features. The song was first released as a single on January 6, 2011, and appeared on their debut self-titled EP released independently that same year. This release caught the attention of Capitol Records, who signed the duo. The song was subsequently re-released and featured as the lead single for their major-label debut album, In a Tidal Wave of Mystery (2013), becoming their breakout hit. The song's title also inspired the album's title, which is a lyric from the song itself.

"Safe and Sound" is rich with metaphors and symbols that illustrate its themes of security and resilience. The most direct metaphors are found in the lines describing catastrophic events, which symbolize life's challenges. Phrases like 'Even if the sky is falling down' and 'Even in a hurricane of frowns' are hyperbolic representations of overwhelming adversity and negativity. These external threats are contrasted with the internal security of the relationship. The line 'Even if we're six feet underground' is a powerful metaphor for death, suggesting that the bond between the two individuals is so strong it transcends mortality. The 'tidal wave of mystery' symbolizes the inherent uncertainty and unpredictability of life, yet even within this chaos, the promise of standing together provides stability. The act of one person being the other's 'luck' is a metaphor for being a source of positivity and good fortune. The first music video for the song juxtaposed images of war and dance throughout the 20th century, using them as symbols for the conflict and joy inherent in human history, suggesting that dance (and by extension, love and connection) provides a refuge—a way to be 'safe and sound' amidst turmoil.

The predominant emotional atmosphere of "Safe and Sound" is one of defiant joy and profound optimism. The song creates an uplifting and hopeful feeling through its combination of a vibrant, danceable beat, a bright synth-and-trumpet melody, and reassuring lyrics. It acknowledges potential darkness and chaos with phrases like 'sky is falling down' and 'tidal wave of mystery,' but these are immediately countered by the confident assertion of being 'safe and sound'. This creates a dynamic of overcoming adversity, resulting in a triumphant and empowering tone rather than one of naive happiness. The harmonious vocals of Merchant and Simonian contribute to a sense of unity and togetherness. While the melody is upbeat, some listeners perceive a layer of nostalgia or even a bittersweet sadness, perhaps because its overwhelming optimism can feel like a refuge from a more complicated reality, or it evokes memories of past relationships and friendships.

"Safe and Sound" became a massive global hit for Capital Cities, marking their breakout into the mainstream. Although first released in 2011, it gained significant traction in 2013, eventually peaking at number 8 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching number 1 in Germany. Its success was partly fueled by its widespread use in advertising, including major commercials for Vodafone in Germany, Mazda, and Coca-Cola. The song's third and most famous music video, directed by Grady Hall, won an MTV Video Music Award for Best Visual Effects and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Music Video. The video, which features a mash-up of dance styles from the last 100 years, became a viral sensation in its own right. The track has been featured in various TV shows and films and remains a popular choice for media seeking an uplifting and positive soundtrack. It established Capital Cities on the international stage and is considered a staple of 2010s indie and synth-pop.

The song follows a relatively consistent ABAB rhyme scheme in its verses, which gives the lyrics a structured and predictable flow, making them easy to follow and sing along to. For example, in the first verse, 'up' rhymes with 'luck' and 'see' rhymes with 'be'. This simple, effective rhyme scheme contributes to the song's pop accessibility. The rhythm is one of the track's most compelling elements. It's built on a driving four-on-the-floor dance beat that creates an infectious and energetic feel, encouraging movement. The tempo is brisk, sitting comfortably in the dance-pop range at around 118 beats per minute. The interplay between the rhythmic vocal delivery and the steady electronic groove is seamless. The chorus is particularly memorable due to its rhythmic syncopation and the powerful repetition of the title phrase, which acts as both a lyrical and rhythmic hook, solidifying the song's anthemic and uplifting quality.

Musically, "Safe and Sound" is a blend of synth-pop, dance-pop, and new wave, characterized by its upbeat tempo (around 118 BPM in C major) and catchy hooks. Its most notable musical feature is the prominent trumpet melody in the chorus, which provides a bright, triumphant fanfare that defines the song's optimistic tone. This was played on a vintage Juno-106 keyboard that gives the production a warm, retro feel. The production layers electronic beats, characteristic of EDM, with New Wave-inspired synthesizer sounds. The vocal delivery by Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian is typically in harmony, reinforcing the lyrical theme of unity and togetherness. Lyrically, the song employs several literary devices. Repetition is key, with the phrase 'safe and sound' acting as a powerful, reassuring refrain that reinforces the song's central message. Alliteration in this phrase also enhances its rhythmic catchiness. The lyrics use hyperbole ('I could lift you up') and strong imagery ('hurricane of frowns') to emphasize the song's themes of support and overcoming adversity.

What is the song 'Safe and Sound' by Capital Cities about?

The song is an optimistic anthem about the security and comfort found in a strong, loving relationship. It conveys that no matter the external chaos or adversity—whether a 'falling sky' or a 'hurricane of frowns'—the bond between two people can keep them feeling safe and secure.

When was 'Safe and Sound' released?

The song was originally released as a single on January 6, 2011, and appeared on the band's debut EP. It later became the lead single for their 2013 debut studio album, 'In a Tidal Wave of Mystery,' which brought it to worldwide attention.

What does the lyric 'Even if we're six feet underground' mean?

'Six feet underground' is a common euphemism for being dead and buried. In the context of the song, this lyric is a powerful metaphor suggesting that the duo's bond and sense of security are so strong that they will endure even after death.

What is the instrument used for the main hook in 'Safe and Sound'?

The iconic, catchy hook in 'Safe and Sound' is a trumpet line. However, during the song's production, the melody was created and played on a vintage Juno-106 synthesizer before being arranged for a real trumpet, contributing to the track's unique blend of electronic and organic sounds.

What is the story behind the famous music video for 'Safe and Sound'?

The most well-known music video, directed by Grady Hall, is set in the Los Angeles Theatre. It depicts the band performing as dancers from different eras of the 20th century (swing, disco, hip-hop, etc.) come to life and compete in a joyous dance-off, celebrating 100 years of dance. The video won an MTV Video Music Award for its visual effects.

What genre of music is 'Safe and Sound'?

The song is primarily categorized as synth-pop and dance-pop, with strong influences from indie pop and new wave music. Its sound is defined by electronic beats, prominent synthesizers, and a catchy trumpet melody.

Who wrote 'Safe and Sound'?

The song was written and produced by the two members of Capital Cities, Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian. They collaborated on both the music and the lyrics, drawing from their experience as jingle writers to create the song's incredibly catchy and positive feel.