About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Ticking" is a haunting and thought-provoking song by Elton John, released in 1974 as part of his album "Caribou." This gripping track stands out for its powerful narrative, chilling lyrics, and Elton John's emotive vocal performance, solidifying its place as one of his most compelling compositions.
Lyrically, "Ticking" tells the story of a troubled young man who commits a violent act of terrorism, capturing the sense of unease and tension that pervades society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's descent into darkness, with lines like "The word gets around in small, small town, they said he was strange" and "He heard about some doctor from a friend of his" capturing the paranoia and fear that surrounds the character's actions.
Elton John's vocal delivery on "Ticking" is both haunting and impassioned, with his emotive performance capturing the song's ominous atmosphere and emotional intensity. His voice resonates with a sense of urgency and despair, drawing listeners into the chilling world of the song's narrative.
Musically, "Ticking" is characterized by its brooding piano melody, atmospheric guitar riffs, and haunting orchestration. The song's haunting instrumentation and haunting melody create a sense of foreboding and unease, immersing listeners in the dark and unsettling atmosphere of the music.
Beyond its musical qualities, "Ticking" also carries a deeper message about the fragility of human nature and the consequences of violence and hatred. The song serves as a powerful commentary on the destructive forces that can tear communities apart and the need for compassion and understanding in a world filled with turmoil.
As one of the standout tracks on "Caribou," "Ticking" remains a fan favorite and a testament to Elton John's ability to tackle complex and challenging subjects through his music. Its chilling lyrics, haunting melody, and emotive vocals continue to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a powerful and enduring part of Elton John's vast musical repertoire.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
"An extremely quiet child" they called you in your school report
"He's always taken interest in the subjects that he's taught"
So what was it that brought the squad car screaming up your drive
To notify your parents of the manner in which you died
At St. Patrick's every Sunday, Father Fletcher heard your sins
"Oh, he's unconcerned with competition he never cares to win"
But blood stained a young hand that never held a gun
And his parents never thought of him as their troubled son
"Now you'll never get to Heaven" Mama said
Remember Mama said
Ticking, ticking
"Grow up straight and true blue
Run along to bed"
Hear it, hear it, ticking, ticking
They had you holed up in a downtown bar screaming for a priest
Some gook said "His brain's just snapped" then someone called the police
You'd knifed a Negro waiter who had tried to calm you down
Oh you'd pulled a gun and told them all to lay still on the ground
Promising to hurt no one, providing they were still
A young man tried to make a break, with tear-filled eyes you killed
That gun butt felt so smooth and warm cradled in your palm
Oh your childhood cried out in your head "they mean to do you harm"
"Don't ever ride on the devil's knee" Mama said
Remember mama said
Ticking, ticking
"Pay your penance well, my child
Fear where angels tread"
Hear it, hear it, ticking, ticking
Within an hour the news had reached the media machine
A male Caucasian with a gun had gone berserk in Queens
The area had been sealed off, the kids sent home from school
Fourteen people lying dead in a bar they called the Kicking Mule
Oh they pleaded to your sanity for the sake of those inside
"Throw out your gun, walk out slow just keep your hands held high"
But they pumped you full of rifle shells as you stepped out the door
Oh you danced in death like a marionette on the vengeance of the law
"You've slept too long in silence" Mama said
Remember Mama said
Ticking, ticking
"Crazy boy, you'll only wind up with strange notions in your head"
Hear it, hear it, ticking, ticking