Song meanings by artist

Tears for Fears: every song, explained.

3 Tears for Fears songs in the archive, from 1982–1989: what each one is about, who wrote it and what it did on the charts. Each entry opens the full explanation.

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Songs explained

1982–1989

Years covered

Rock

Main genre here

3 songs

Sorted by year

Tears for Fears Mad WorldDive into the haunting themes, poignant lyrics, and enduring impact of Tears for Fears' classic 'Mad World.' Explore its background, chart success, and… 1982 Tears for Fears Everybody Wants to Rule the WorldWhat 'Everybody Wants to Rule the World' means: a Cold War song about power and corruption that the band nearly left off the album, and that its own writer… 1985 Tears for Fears Woman in ChainsUncover the powerful and poignant message of 'Woman in Chains' by Tears for Fears. Explore its themes of domestic abuse, liberation, and the stunning duet with… 1989

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By number of songs explained

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About these entries

Every Tears for Fears entry sets out what the song is about and where that reading comes from: writing credits, interviews, the record's own history. Where a popular interpretation is wrong, the entry says so and shows the evidence. Missing a song? Suggest it.