The Force of Environmental Lyrics in Pop Songs: The Case of Gorillaz’s Plastic Beach

Abstract

This article examines how compositional and performative strategies impact the potency of environmental song lyrics on Gorillaz’s album Plastic Beach. The quality of songfulness is implicated as a primary obstacle to lyrical force. The literary function of fictionality is put forth along with the Bakhtinian concept of literary polyphony as key strategies by which lyrics are reinforced. Plastic Beach employs a large cast of contributors, engaging several voices in a fictionalized reflection on plastic pollution. These features support the potential of lyrics to exert political force, while residing in tension with distracting effects of catchy pop grooves.