Introduction
“Young Folks” is a song by Swedish indie pop band Peter Bjorn and John, which was released as the second single from their third album, Writer’s Block, in 2006. The song features Victoria Bergsman, the lead singer of The Concretes, on vocals and whistle.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Young Folks” are simple and catchy. The song is about young love and the excitement and uncertainty that comes with it. The chorus is particularly memorable, with Bergsman’s whistle taking center stage:
If I told you things I did before / Told you how I used to be / Would you go along with someone like me? / If you knew my story word for word / Had all of my history / Would you go along with someone like me?
The rest of the lyrics are similarly straightforward, with the verses describing the narrator’s attraction to the object of their affection:
All we care about is talking / Talking only me and you / Doing things we used to do / They think I’m crazy, maybe, but I got you
The Music
“Young Folks” is known for its distinctive whistling melody, which is played by Bergsman and repeated throughout the song. The melody is backed by a simple drumbeat and a bassline that provides the song’s driving rhythm.
The song’s arrangement is sparse, with only a few instruments playing at any given time. This gives the song a sense of intimacy and allows the lyrics and melody to shine through.
The Impact
“Young Folks” was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 in several countries, including the US, UK, and Australia. The song’s catchy melody and memorable whistle made it a popular choice for use in television shows, commercials, and films.
The song’s popularity also helped to establish Peter Bjorn and John as an up-and-coming indie band. Since the release of “Young Folks,” the band has continued to release critically acclaimed albums and tour extensively.
Conclusion
“Young Folks” is a classic indie pop song that has stood the test of time. Its simple yet memorable lyrics and catchy whistle melody make it a favorite of music fans around the world. If you haven’t heard it yet, give it a listen and see why it’s become such a beloved song.
