Arcade Fire - City With No Children Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What inspired the line 'Never trust a millionaire quoting the sermon on the mount' in 'City With No Children'?

   The line is inspired by frontman Win Butler's favorite author, George Orwell, and reflects his views on conformity and hipster-political posturing in areas like Williamsburg, London, and New York.

2. Is the line about not trusting millionaires directed at U2 frontman Bono?

   No, Win Butler clarified that while some might think the line is about Bono, it is not intended negatively. He respects Bono for engaging with President George W. Bush on important issues, despite it being unpopular.

3. Where does the theme of the album The Suburbs, which includes 'City With No Children', come from?

   The album's theme is inspired by band members Win and William Butler's upbringing in The Woodlands, Texas, a suburb of Houston. It aims to capture the essence of suburban life without being a love letter or an indictment.

4. Where was 'City With No Children' recorded?

   'City With No Children,' along with other tracks on The Suburbs album, was recorded at Win Butler and Régine Chassagne's residence in Montreal, as well as the band's studio in Quebec and in New York City.

5. What kind of musical influences does 'City With No Children' have?

   Win Butler described the overall sound of The Suburbs, which includes 'City With No Children,' as a mix of Depeche Mode and Neil Young. He aimed to evoke the bands he heard in his youth.

6. How was the digital master of The Suburbs created?

   The band pressed each completed song to a 12″ lacquer and then recorded it back for the digital master of the album. This process aimed to capture a specific sonic quality for the tracks, including 'City With No Children.'