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"Get on Your Boots" (CD single) (by U2, Rock)

common sense media says

Energizing call to action sends positive message to teens.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that the "sexy boots" in this song are a metaphor for going to work, and true to the band's counter-culture roots, the work to be done is fixing the world's problems. It's a rocking, danceable song whose lyrics may go over tweens' heads, but could find an audience with teens seeking an inspiring message.

Positive messages: The lyrics to this song address current world tensions with lines like,"If someone's into blowing up, we're into growing up, women are the future, all the big revelations."
Violence: There are mentions of bombs, explosions and war, but nothing graphic.
Sex: The band sings about "sexy boots," but it's meant metaphorically and there's nothing salacious about it.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on "Get on Your Boots" (CD single)

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about what role music plays in current events. Do you like to listen to songs that discuss politics or social issues? Do you think musicians can influence audience's political views? If you like a band's music, would you automatically like their message?

What's the story?

What's the story?
It took five years for the band to create its newest album, No Line on the Horizon, with GET ON YOUR BOOTS as the first single. Following an online leak, the song has been enjoying a positive response, possibly because the timing of the release coincides with President Obama's call to service. In lyrics like, "Here's what you gotta be / Love & community" U2 is trying to mobilize listeners to get appropriately suited up for the work ahead.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
With a retro, electro, and techno sound, this single is a fast-paced experience that seems to draw on everything from Nancy Sinatra ("These Boots Were Made for Walking") to Billy Joel ("We Didn't Start the Fire"). It's a fresh, experimental, approachable track that spotlights classic U2 elements, like Bono's unmistakable vocals along with the band's driving guitar accompaniments. Its anti-war message isn't overbearing, brooding, or judgmental, and seems to aptly tap into a growing momentum among today's youth to end wars, create community, and help clean up the world's problems.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: January 19, 2009
Label: Universal
Genre: Rock
This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

BestPicture1996
teen, 16 years old
10
 
This is like "Horizon's" "Vertigo!"
It's one of my favorite tracks on the album!
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nickelmcpickle
teen, 14 years old
12
 
AWESOME
one of my fave songs of all time
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helped me decide (1) | had useful details (3) | read my mind (2)
jason913
teen, 15 years old
11
 
Despite iffiness, this tune still succeeds.
This single from U2's latest (and close to weakest, IMO) album is rocking and innuendo-laced at the same time. It took an online search to find out what those "Boots" were, but ignoring the sexual content, it does contain some interesting ideas. Is this new song a new classic for U2?: No. Is it an enjoyable song that stands on its own merits?: Absolutely yes.
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helped me decide (1) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (2)

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
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