"Wires" is a poignant track by The Neighbourhood, featured on their debut EP "I’m Sorry…" and later included in the 10th Anniversary Edition of their album "I Love You." released in 2022. The song delves into the complexities of friendship, ambition, and the harsh realities of the music industry.
The song explores themes of defeat and struggle, reflecting on the impact of external pressures on individuals, particularly in the context of a friend's downfall in the music industry.
The song opens with a haunting instrumental that sets a somber tone, immediately immersing the listener in a reflective mood. Jesse Rutherford's lyrics tell the story of a former friend and fellow musician who faced the harsh realities of the music industry, particularly the corrupting influence of record labels. The line, "We talked about making it, I'm sorry that you never made it," encapsulates the disappointment and sorrow felt for someone who had dreams but was ultimately let down by the system. This sentiment is further emphasized in the chorus, where the phrase "the wires got the best of him" serves as a metaphor for the entrapment and control exerted by external forces, such as the music industry and societal expectations. The imagery of "wires" suggests a sense of being bound or restricted, highlighting the struggle against these pressures. The lyrics also touch on the theme of seeking help, as seen in the line, "If he said, help me kill the president, I'd say, he needs medicine." This line reflects a sense of helplessness and the futility of certain struggles, indicating that the protagonist recognizes the need for intervention but feels powerless to provide it. The overall mood of the song is one of somber reflection, as it captures the emotional turmoil of watching a friend succumb to defeat and the pain of feeling inadequate in the face of their struggles. The repetition of the themes of defeat and the impact of external pressures creates a haunting narrative that resonates deeply with listeners, making "Wires" a powerful commentary on the darker side of ambition and the music industry.