Pop-Rock With a Message.


When Robert Palmer wrote his 1986 signature classic, ‘Addicted to Love’, he was probably unaware that he was imparting some sound precautionary advice.

It’s all there in the opening line. “The lights are on but you’re not home”. Mere seconds into this slice of radio-friendly rock, Palmer suggests the perfect burglar deterrent.

As a plan, it’s pretty foolproof. What could be better than convincing any would-be criminals that there’s somebody in the house, when there isn’t? Nothing signposts an empty building more than being shrouded in complete darkness. If it worked for Macaulay Culkin, it can also work for you. 

(A maxim that applies to many things in life.)
 
If only more popular music could embrace such a positive and practical message. Too many artists don’t consider how their compositions could be so easily misconstrued. Blondie's 'The Tide is High' doesn't once take into consideration the many times it isn't.

With 'Addicted to Love', Palmer definitely blazed a trail. Not just in terms of domestic security; he also had that entirely female band.

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