Talking Heads - Burning Down the House Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was the inspiration for the song 'Burning Down the House'?

   Talking Heads' Chris Frantz was inspired by a P-Funk show he attended with Tina Weymouth at Madison Square Garden. The crowd's chant 'Burn down the house' gave him the idea for the title. The song evolved from a band jam session, where lyrics were shaped by the rhythms.

2. Who directed the music video for 'Burning Down the House'?

   David Byrne, the lead singer of Talking Heads, directed the music video for 'Burning Down the House.' The video features the band performing in an empty ballroom and includes projections of a concert crowd and flames, amplifying the song's energetic feel.

3. Was 'Burning Down the House' a commercial success?

   Yes, 'Burning Down the House' was Talking Heads' highest-charting single in North America, reaching No. 9 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and entering the top ten in Canada. However, it was not a hit outside North America, charting modestly in Australia and failing in the UK.

4. Which notable musicians contributed to the recording of 'Burning Down the House'?

   The song features the contributions of Wally Badarou, who added synthesizer parts, and percussionist Steve Scales. Bernie Worrell, known for his work with Parliament-Funkadelic, joined Talking Heads' touring lineup, enhancing the live renditions of 'Burning Down the House.'

5. Did 'Burning Down the House' make it onto any notable live performances or films?

   Yes, an extended live version of the song was a highlight of Talking Heads' concert film 'Stop Making Sense.' The film, released in 1984, was remastered in 2023 for its 40th anniversary and re-released in IMAX and conventional theaters worldwide.

6. Are there any notable cover versions of 'Burning Down the House'?

   Welsh singer Tom Jones recorded a collaboration with The Cardigans in 1999, which became a hit in Europe. Paramore also released a cover in 2024, serving as the lead single for a tribute album to Talking Heads' 'Stop Making Sense.'