Midnight Oil is an iconic Australian rock band formed in 1972, best known for their politically charged lyrics and energetic performances.
Led by lead vocalist Peter Garrett, the band became a major force in the music world with hits like “Beds Are Burning” and “The Dead Heart.”
Midnight Oil’s unique sound blends rock with anthemic choruses and powerful social commentary. Their 1987 album Diesel and Dust is one of their most successful, with global recognition.
The band has earned multiple awards, including ARIA Awards and Grammy nominations. Midnight Oil continues to inspire with their music and activism, making a lasting impact on both the music industry and political discourse.
About the Song
“Beds Are Burning” by Midnight Oil is a powerful song with a catchy beat and bold message. It addresses social issues, particularly about Indigenous land rights in Australia.
The song’s strong rhythm and clear message make it memorable.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | August 1987 |
| Album | 20,000 Watt R.S.L. |
| Writers | Rob Hirst, Jim Moginie, and Peter Garrett |
| Producers | Midnight Oil and Warne Livesey |
Lyrics of Beds Are Burning
Verse 1
Out where the river broke
The bloodwood and the desert oak
Holden wrecks and boilin’ diesels
Steam in forty-five degrees
Pre-Chorus
The time has come to say fair’s fair
To pay the rent, to pay our share
The time has come, a fact’s a fact
It belongs to them, let’s give it back
Chorus
How can we dance when our earth is turnin’?
How do we sleep while our beds are burnin’?
How can we dance when our earth is turnin’?
How do we sleep while our beds are burnin’?
Post-Chorus
The time has come to say fair’s fair
To pay the rent now, to pay our share
Verse 2
Four wheels scare the cockatoos
From Kintore, east to Yuendemu
The Western Desert lives and breathes
In forty-five degrees
Pre-Chorus
The time has come to say fair’s fair
To pay the rent, to pay our share
The time has come, a fact’s a fact
It belongs to them, let’s give it back
Chorus
How can we dance when our earth is turnin’?
How do we sleep while our beds are burnin’?
How can we dance when our earth is turnin’?
How do we sleep while our beds are burnin’?
Pre-Chorus
The time has come to say fair’s fair
To pay the rent now, to pay our share
The time has come, a fact’s a fact
It belongs to them, we’re gonna give it back
Outro
How can we dance when our earth is turnin’?
How do we sleep while our beds are burnin’?
Similar Songs Like Beds Are Burning by Midnight Oil
Similar songs by Midnight Oil with bold messages, strong rhythms, and impactful lyrics like “Beds Are Burning”:
- The Dead Heart: This song highlights social issues regarding Indigenous Australian rights, much like “Beds Are Burning,” with its powerful message and anthemic chorus.
- Blue Sky Mine: Tackling environmental issues and corporate responsibility, this track shares the same intensity and political focus found in “Beds Are Burning.”
- Forgotten Years: With its focus on historical issues and political struggles, “Forgotten Years” delivers a similar rhythmic power and calls for reflection on societal change.
- Power and the Passion: A high-energy song with a critical view of politics and power structures, echoing the socially conscious themes of “Beds Are Burning.”
- Truganini: A track focused on the history of Indigenous Australians, similar to “Beds Are Burning,” addressing important social justice issues with strong, direct lyrics.
Awards for the Song Beds Are Burning
Here are some major awards received for the song Beds Are Burning:
| Awards | Category |
|---|---|
| ARIA Music Awards (1988) | Song of the Year |
| ARIA Music Awards (1988) | Single of the Year |
Similar Bands Like Midnight Oil
Here are similar bands like Midnight Oil, blending rock with powerful messages and political themes.
- The Clash
Genres: Punk Rock, New Wave, Post-Punk
Top Albums: London Calling (1979), Combat Rock (1982), Give ‘Em Enough Rope (1978) - Rage Against the Machine
Genres: Rap Rock, Alternative Metal, Funk Metal
Top Albums: Rage Against the Machine (1992), Evil Empire (1996), The Battle of Los Angeles (1999) - Bruce Springsteen
Genres: Rock, Heartland Rock, Folk Rock
Top Albums: Born in the U.S.A. (1984), Born to Run (1975), The River (1980) - U2
Genres: Rock, Alternative Rock, Post-Punk
Top Albums: The Joshua Tree (1987), Achtung Baby (1991), All That You Can’t Leave Behind (2000) - The Pogues
Genres: Folk Rock, Celtic Punk, Punk Rock
Top Albums: Rum, Sodomy & the Lash (1985), If I Should Fall from Grace with God (1988), Peace and Love (1989)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Did Peter Garrett Write Beds Are Burning?
Peter Garrett wrote “Beds Are Burning” to raise awareness about the struggles of Indigenous Australians and their fight for land rights.
Why is Midnight Oil Controversial?
Midnight Oil is controversial due to their strong political activism, especially their outspoken support for Indigenous rights and environmental causes, challenging societal norms.
Is There a Acoustic Cover of Beds Are Burning by Midnight Oil?
Yes, you can watch the karaoke version on YouTube.
