Robbie Williams - Tripping Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who wrote the song 'Tripping' by Robbie Williams?

   The song 'Tripping' was written by Robbie Williams and Stephen Duffy. This partnership formed after Williams parted ways with his original collaborator, Guy Chambers.

2. What genre is 'Tripping' by Robbie Williams often mistakenly categorized as?

   'Tripping' is frequently referred to as a 'reggae song' by the press, although Robbie Williams himself disagreed with this categorization. The rolling rhythm of the song owes much to the early work of The Clash.

3. What are some notable elements in the music video for 'Tripping'?

   Directed by Johan Renck, the music video for 'Tripping' features surreal scenarios based on nightmares Robbie Williams was having at the time. Notable elements include Williams running in place in an old hotel corridor, a singing baby in a car, and surreal shifts like a room rotated 90 degrees.

4. What inspired the opening line of 'Tripping', and who is it commonly misattributed to?

   The opening line of 'Tripping', "First they ignore you, then laugh at you and hate you, then they fight you, then you win," is commonly misattributed to Mahatma Gandhi. It actually traces back to Nicholas Klein, a trade union activist who said something similar during a speech in 1918.

5. How did 'Tripping' perform commercially upon its release?

   'Tripping' became a global hit after its release on October 3, 2005. It reached number one in Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands; within top five in over ten European countries including number two in the UK; number seven in Australia; and number twenty in New Zealand.

6. What unusual vocal technique does Robbie Williams use in 'Tripping'?

   In the chorus of 'Tripping,' Robbie Williams employs an extremely high falsetto or head voice. This technique contributes to giving parts of the song a disco-like feel despite its other musical influences.