Windowlicker Lyrics — Aphex Twin

Introduction

"Windowlicker" is an iconic single by British IDM artist Richard D. James, better known by his alias Aphex Twin. Released in March 1999, this track represents a fusion of electronic experimentation and surrealism, both musically and visually. Not only did it reach #16 on the UK charts, making it Aphex Twin's highest-charting release, but it also became famous for its striking and bizarre music video directed by Chris Cunningham. The song pushes the boundaries of conventional electronic music, combining glitchy beats with distorted vocal samples, all while challenging societal norms through its visual presentation.

Song Info

• Producer: Aphex Twin
• Release Date: March 22, 1999
• Genre: IDM, Experimental, Breakbeat
• Album: Single - Windowlicker
• Label: Warp & Sire Records

Exploring the Lyrics of "Windowlicker" by Aphex Twin

The lyrics of "Windowlicker" are minimal and repetitive, consisting almost entirely of the word "windowlicker" repeated in various distorted forms throughout the song. This minimalistic approach allows the track to focus more on its experimental production and mood rather than conveying a specific narrative. However, the repetitive nature of the word can be seen as a critique of the commercial music industry, where catchy, simplistic elements often dominate. The inclusion of French in the bridge, "J'aime faire des croquettes au chien" (translated as "I like making dog treats"), adds another layer of absurdity, contributing to the surreal and playful nature of the track.

Song Theme

At its core, "Windowlicker" challenges conventional expectations both musically and visually. The song can be interpreted as a satire of consumer culture and objectification, particularly in its accompanying music video. In the video, directed by Chris Cunningham, two men attempt to attract women, only to be outdone by a limousine filled with strippers who have distorted, grotesque versions of Aphex Twin's face. This bizarre imagery highlights the superficiality and absurdity of traditional gender dynamics and societal values, particularly those often depicted in media. The combination of unsettling visuals with a "summery" sound provides an ironic contrast, enhancing the commentary on these issues.

Song Composition Breakdown

"Windowlicker" is notable for its complex and experimental production, a hallmark of Aphex Twin’s music. The track blends IDM (intelligent dance music) with glitch, breakbeat, and industrial elements. Its structure is unconventional, relying heavily on manipulated vocal samples, layered textures, and dynamic shifts in tempo and rhythm. Aphex Twin uses intricate drum patterns and sound effects that create an almost chaotic yet controlled sonic experience. Additionally, the song includes an easter egg: when played through a spectrogram, a visual representation of a face (possibly Richard D. James himself) can be seen, further emphasizing the artist’s avant-garde approach to both music and digital art.

Impact and Reception

Upon its release, "Windowlicker" was a critical and commercial success. Its unique sound, combined with the provocative music video, solidified Aphex Twin's reputation as an innovator in electronic music. The track's influence can be seen in the work of later experimental and electronic artists, particularly within the glitch and IDM genres. The music video, with its shocking and surreal visuals, also became a cultural talking point, further cementing the song's place in music history.

Quotes

"When Richard did this track that sounded summery and sunny, I thought, ‘Fuck. We should do it in LA in that style.'"

Chris Cunningham

"The last half of the video sounded really pornographic. It made me think about girls' arses. So I thought okay, that’s definitely how the video’s got to end."

Chris Cunningham