1. “Laid” is one of my favorite songs, but I have yet to find another song by James that I like.
2. “Laid” does not contain the word “laid” anywhere in its lyrics. This happens from time to time in the music industry. “Baba O’Riley” by The Who, “Danny’s Song” by Loggins & Messina, and a whole bunch of Led Zeppelin songs come to mind, but still, it’s not common.
3. Ever since I heard the song for the first time, I’ve wondered (and worried about) the song’s protagonist. He’s tried to escape an apparently unhealthy relationship with this woman, only to find her returning to his life again and again. Then he sings those last two unforgettable lines:
You’re driving me crazy
When are you coming home?
Haunting. Right?
Does this mean he’s trapped? Unable to escape her charms? Doomed to return to her again and again? Destined to never find happiness and real love?
Or does it mean that he’s finally realized that she was meant for him? Has he finally found true love? Do they live happily ever after?
Perhaps you haven’t wondered about these final lines like I have. Perhaps you think I’m worrying too much about a fictional protagonist in a minor hit song from 1993.
You would be wrong.
4. Here’s the craziest thing about the song:
The chorus is just the single word “pretty” stretched out over at least six bars of music and modulated vocally throughout those six or more bars. Except I would argue that the chorus isn’t the word “pretty” but instead the second half of the word “pretty.” It’s really just the modulation of the second half of that word that makes up the chorus. Just half a work, and yet it’s still catchy and easy to sing.
Crazy. Right?
Here are the lyrics in case you’re unfamiliar (and if so, shame on you):
“Laid”
This bed is on fire with passionate love
The neighbours complain about the noises above
But she only comes when she’s on top
My therapist said not to see you no more
She said you’re like a disease without any cure
She said I’m so obsessed that I’m becoming a bore, oh no
Ah, you think you’re so pretty…
Caught your hand inside the till
Slammed your fingers in the door
Fought with kitchen knives and skewers
Dressed me up in womens’ clothes
Messed around with gender roles
Line my eyes and call me pretty
Moved out of the house so you moved next door
I locked you out, you cut a hole in the wall
I found you sleeping next to me, I thought I was alone
You’re driving me crazy
When are you coming home?
