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The Orchids "It's Only Obvious"
The Wedding Present "Kennedy"
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The Wedding Present "Kennedy"

Bizarro (1989)

"Kennedy" by The Wedding Present

Overview
"Kennedy" is one of the most iconic singles by British indie rock band The Wedding Present. Released in 1989, it was the lead—and only—single from their second studio album, Bizarro, which marked their debut on the RCA label1. The song became the band's first Top 40 hit in the UK, peaking at number 331.

Musical Style and Impact
The track is emblematic of The Wedding Present's energetic, jangly guitar-driven sound, blending elements of indie rock, jangle pop, post-punk, and pop-punk1. Its urgent tempo, swirling guitars, and David Gedge’s emotionally charged vocals helped cement the band’s reputation as a leading force in the late-80s indie scene.

Themes and Lyrics
"Kennedy" explores themes of identity, responsibility, and the complexities of relationships. The lyrics convey a sense of confusion and the struggle to find purpose in a chaotic world, resonating with listeners facing difficult choices or moments of transition2. The song’s central character, "Kennedy," remains enigmatic, symbolizing influential figures or pivotal moments that shape one’s path2.

"The lyrics delve into the struggles of navigating a bewildering and chaotic world... Like a ship lost at sea, we grapple with the eternal question of who we truly are and what our purpose may be. The Wedding Present, through their evocative lyrics, reminds us that these struggles are not unique to us alone. Instead, they are universal threads that connect us in our shared human experience."2

Album Context and Legacy

  • Appears on Bizarro (1989), which is widely regarded as a classic of British indie rock1.
  • The single’s B-sides, including a cover of Tom Jones’ "It’s Not Unusual," were later included in remastered and US versions of the album1.
  • "Kennedy" remains a fan favorite and a staple of The Wedding Present’s live performances.

Personnel

  • David Gedge – vocals, guitar
  • Peter Solowka – guitar
  • Keith Gregory – bass guitar
  • Simon Smith – drums
  • Produced by Chris Allison1

Music Video
The official music video for "Kennedy" was released in 1989 and is available through Sony Music Entertainment UK3.

Summary Table: Key Facts About "Kennedy"

FactDetails
ArtistThe Wedding Present
AlbumBizarro (1989)
Release Date23 October 1989
UK Chart PeakNo. 33
GenreIndie rock, jangle pop, post-punk, pop-punk
ProducerChris Allison
Notable B-sides"It’s Not Unusual" (Tom Jones cover)
LabelRCA

"Kennedy" stands as a quintessential indie anthem, capturing the emotional turbulence and raw energy that define The Wedding Present’s enduring appeal12.

October 23, 1989
byHeptarky

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