Released in 2013 on the album 'AM', 'Do I Wanna Know?' quickly became one of Arctic Monkeys' most iconic tracks. Featuring a distinctive guitar riff, the song explores themes of longing and uncertainty in relationships. Its relatable lyrics make it an excellent resource for English learners to engage with everyday vocabulary and expressions. The song reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, further solidifying the band's place in modern rock history.
Lyrics
Do I Wanna Know? — Arctic Monkeys
English
Have you got colour in your cheeks?
Do you ever get that fear that you can't shift
The type that sticks around like summat in your teeth?
Are there some aces up your sleeve?
Have you no idea that you're in deep?
I dreamt about you nearly every night this week
How many secrets can you keep?
'Cause there's this tune I found
That makes me think of you somehow
And I play it on repeat
Until I fall asleep
Spilling drinks on my settee
(Do I wanna know)
If this feeling flows both ways?
(Sad to see you go)
Was sorta hoping that you'd stay
(Baby, we both know)
That the nights were mainly made
For saying things that you can't say tomorrow day
Crawling back to you
Ever thought of calling when you've had a few?
'Cause I always do
Maybe I'm too busy being yours to fall for somebody new
Now, I've thought it through
Crawling back to you
So, have you got the guts?
Been wondering if your heart's still open
And if so, I wanna know what time it shuts
Simmer down and pucker up
I'm sorry to interrupt, it's just I'm constantly on the cusp
Of trying to kiss you
I don't know if you feel the same as I do
But we could be together if you wanted to
Thiago, valeu por acreditar no Fill the Song. A tua música favorita também é parte da nossa história. Quando alguém jogar com ela, vai ter um pedacinho seu no ar.
Grammar
What you learn from this song
Present Perfect / Pretérito Perfeito Composto
The Present Perfect tense is used to describe actions that have occurred at some indefinite time in the past or that continue into the present. It emphasizes the result or experience rather than the specific time of the action. This structure is crucial for English learners as it helps articulate experiences and situations relevant to the present moment.
'Have you got colour in your cheeks?' — This line uses Present Perfect to inquire about a condition that may have changed recently.
'Have you no idea that you're in deep?' — This line also reflects an ongoing state related to the present moment.
'Ever thought of calling when you've had a few?' — A usage of Present Perfect showing past experiences that influence current feelings.
Simple Present / Presente Simples
The Simple Present tense is used for habitual actions, general truths, and facts. It's one of the fundamental tenses in English that allows learners to express routine activities and universal truths. Grasping Simple Present is essential for effective communication in English.
'Do you ever get that fear that you can't shift?' — This line illustrates a general truth about persistent feelings.
'I dreamt about you nearly every night this week' — While the verb 'dreamt' is past, it contrasts with the habit expressed in Simple Present.
'But we could be together if you wanted to' — This hypothetical statement implies a general possibility focusing on the present.
Fun facts
Did you know?
The song was recorded at Sage & Sound Studios in Los Angeles and was produced by James Ford, who also produced the band's previous albums.
Upon release, 'Do I Wanna Know?' garnered critical acclaim, earning nominations for Best Rock Performance and Best Rock Song at the Grammy Awards.
The song peaked at number 1 on the UK Singles Chart, showcasing the Arctic Monkeys' significant impact on the rock genre.
Its music video features a unique animation style that was created by Arctic Monkeys' long-time collaborator, David Wilson.
Several artists have covered 'Do I Wanna Know?', including the American rock band The 1975, showcasing its enduring popularity in the music scene.
For students
Why learn English with this song?
This song is particularly beneficial for learning English due to its moderate vocabulary level and clear pronunciation. The repetition of phrases helps reinforce understanding and retention of useful expressions. Additionally, the conversational nature of the lyrics allows learners to practice common grammatical structures in context.
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