1985

The song dives into a yearning for the past, focusing on the life of a stereotypical white guy in 1985. It highlights how these figures often seem to have it all figured out, living a carefree life. However, it also hints at deeper issues beneath the surface, like the struggles of others during that same time. Burnham uses humor to critique the idea of an idealized past while also expressing a personal longing for connection with his own father's experiences.

Verse 1

He's a really cool guy
He's got a cool shirt
He's got cool shoes
Did I mention the shirt?

This verse sets the stage by introducing a character that embodies the typical coolness of a white guy in the '80s. The repetition and focus on superficial traits like a "cool shirt" and "cool shoes" emphasize a light-hearted, almost mocking tone. It suggests that the image is more important than substance, inviting listeners to question what truly makes someone "cool."

Chorus

He walks into a room
And everyone respects him (everyone respects him)
He reads the news
And doesn't let that shit affect him (let that shit affect him)

In the chorus, Burnham highlights the carefree confidence of this character. The idea that he commands respect just by walking into a room speaks to the privilege often associated with being a white male. The line about not letting the news affect him adds a layer of irony, suggesting that ignorance can be bliss, which many might envy. It contrasts the character’s apparent happiness with the struggles of others during that time.

Verse 2

He's got a job and a family
How does he do it?
Balances work with his wife's underwhelming cooking
He's got all the answers that I wanna know

This verse dives deeper into the character's life, showcasing a seemingly perfect family dynamic. The mention of "his wife's underwhelming cooking" adds a humorous touch, yet it hints at traditional gender roles that might not be as rosy as they seem. The narrator's curiosity about how to achieve this balance reflects a desire for stability and happiness, which feels elusive in the present.

Chorus

He got it, and he flaunts
I am the thing he is
But he isn't when I walk
I guess it's true that some people really got to fight to survive

Here, the chorus continues the exploration of privilege. The narrator recognizes that while he shares some traits with this white guy, he feels different when he walks into a room. It acknowledges the struggle of many people today, contrasting it with the ease that the character seems to embody. This duality raises questions about identity and what it means to "succeed" in life.

Bridge

Wait
It wasn't easy being any white guy in 1985
Some white guys were living through the AIDS crisis
Some white guys were Italian

In the bridge, Burnham takes a moment to clarify and complicate his earlier statements. He points out that not all white guys had it easy, introducing the AIDS crisis as a significant issue during that time. This adds depth to the narrative, showing that while the stereotype exists, reality is far more nuanced. It’s a reminder that struggles are universal, even if they look different across different groups.

Outro

I wanna be my dad (Scott)
I wanna be my dad in the '80s (Scott)
My oblivious white dad in the mid-80s (Scott)
My dad was an oblivious white guy (general contractor)

The outro brings the focus back to personal longing. The repetition of wanting to be his dad emphasizes a deep emotional connection and a desire to reclaim that simpler, more carefree time. Referring to his dad as "oblivious" suggests a mix of admiration and criticism, acknowledging the privilege while also hinting at the naivety that comes with it. It feels bittersweet, as the narrator grapples with the happiness he associates with that period.

Closing Thoughts

"1985" is a clever blend of humor and nostalgia that prompts listeners to reflect on their own lives and the lives of those who came before them. Burnham’s playful yet critical approach makes us question what we truly value and how we define happiness across generations. It’s a reminder that while some may seem to have it easy, life is far more complex than the surface reveals.