Pixies - St. Nazaire Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What inspired the song 'St. Nazaire' by Pixies?

   'St. Nazaire' was initially inspired by an Allied attack on a World War II submarine base located in Saint-Nazaire, France. The imagery in the song evolved during the recording process from themes of 'Nazi Ghosts and Submarines' to the myth of a 'selkie bride.'

2. What is the mythological reference in the song 'St. Nazaire'?

   The song references the Scottish mythology of a selkie, a creature that can transform from a seal to human form by shedding its skin. If someone takes the selkie’s skin, the selkie is forced into marriage with that person.

3. Who is Black Francis, mentioned in relation to 'St. Nazaire'?

   Black Francis, also known as Frank Black, is the lead singer and primary lyricist of the Pixies. He mentioned needing an expression for the female character in 'St. Nazaire,' describing her as rough around the edges and linked to the myth of the selkie.

4. What other songs or artists are mentioned in the same article as 'St. Nazaire' by Pixies?

   The article mentions Katy Perry's 'Dark Horse,' co-written by Sarah Hudson, Bruce Springsteen's 'Blinded By The Light,' The Beach Boys' 'Kokomo,' Crowded House's 'Don't Dream It's Over,' Iggy Pop's 'Lust For Life,' and David Bowie's 'Rebel Rebel.' It also references contributions by Bernie Taupin and other artists.

5. How does Black Francis describe his vocal performance in 'St. Nazaire'?

   Black Francis describes unleashing a full cathartic holler during 'St. Nazaire.' He mentioned that while he often found screamer suggestions from producers or managers to fall flat, this song naturally took him to that intense vocal expression.

6. What is the historical significance of Saint-Nazaire during World War II?

   During World War II, Saint-Nazaire served as a major submarine base for the German Kriegsmarine. It was the target of a successful British raid in 1942 and was heavily bombed by the Allies. The town was one of the last in Europe to be liberated from German occupation.