The Decemberists - 16 Military Wives Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who wrote the song '16 Military Wives'?

   '16 Military Wives' was written by Colin Meloy, the lead singer and songwriter of The Decemberists.

2. What inspired the song '16 Military Wives'?

   The song was inspired by the Iraq War and American foreign policy under George W. Bush. Colin Meloy described it as a 'protest song' that critiques elements of U.S. foreign policy and media coverage.

3. Where was the music video for '16 Military Wives' filmed?

   The music video was filmed at Cleveland High School in Portland, Oregon, but it is set in the fictional Barger Rothery Academy.

4. Who co-produced the music video for '16 Military Wives'?

   Nick Harmer from Death Cab for Cutie co-produced the music video. He also makes a cameo appearance in it.

5. What is unique about the release of the '16 Military Wives' music video?

   '16 Military Wives' was the first music video to be originally released for online distribution via BitTorrent.

6. What themes are explored in the lyrics of '16 Military Wives'?

   '16 Military Wives' explores themes such as American foreign policy, media infotainment, celebrity involvement in public affairs, and societal responses to war.