“Ball of Confusion (That’s What the World Is Today)” is a song by The Temptations, released in 1970. Written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, the song addresses the social and political turmoil of the time.
The lyrics of “Ball of Confusion” highlight a range of issues, including war, racial inequality, economic instability, and political corruption. The song captures the chaotic and turbulent atmosphere of the late 1960s and early 1970s, conveying a sense of frustration and urgency for change. The rapid-fire delivery of the verses and the listing of various social issues create a sense of overwhelming confusion and disorder.
Musically, the song features a driving, funky beat with a prominent bassline, psychedelic guitars, and dynamic horn arrangements. The powerful vocal performances by The Temptations add to the intensity and urgency of the message.
“Ball of Confusion” became a significant hit, resonating with listeners who were experiencing the societal upheavals of the era. It remains a poignant and relevant commentary on social issues, reflecting The Temptations’ ability to blend impactful messages with compelling music.
People moving out, people moving in Why, because of the color of their skin Run, run, run but you sure can’t hide
An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth Vote for me and I’ll set you free Rap on, brother, rap on
Well, the only person talking about love thy brother is the preacher And it seems nobody’s interested in learning but the teacher Segregation, determination, demonstration, integration Aggravation, humiliation, obligation to our nation
Ball of confusion Oh yeah, that’s what the world is today Woo, hey, hey
The sale of pills are at an all time high Young folks walking round with their heads in the sky The cities ablaze in the summer time
And oh, the beat goes on
Evolution, revolution, gun control, sound of soul Shooting rockets to the moon, kids growing up too soon Politicians say more taxes will solve everything
And the band played on
So, round and around and around we go Where the world’s headed, nobody knows
Oh, great googa-looga, can’t you hear me talking to you Just a ball of confusion Oh yeah, that’s what the world is today Woo, hey
Fear in the air, tension everywhere Unemployment rising fast, the Beatles new record’s a gas
And the only safe place to live is on an Indian reservation
And the band played on
Eve of destruction, tax deduction, city inspectors, bill collectors Mod clothes in demand, population out of hand, suicide, too many bills Hippies moving to the hills, people all over the world are shouting, end the war
And the band played on
Great googa-looga, can’t you hear me talking to you Sayin’ ball of confusion That’s what the world is today, hey, hey
Let me hear ya, let me hear ya, let me hear ya Sayin’, ball of confusion That’s what the world is today, hey, hey Let me hear ya, let me hear ya, let me hear ya, let me hear ya, let me hear ya Ball of confusion
Tam Le