Don't Bring Me Down

Electric Light Orchestra's (ELO) song 'Don't Bring Me Down' is a vibrant rock track that combines catchy melodies with a message of frustration and a plea for positivity. The lyrics convey the feelings of someone who is tired of being dragged down by the negativity of another person, possibly a romantic partner or a friend. The repeated line 'Don't bring me down' serves as a chorus and a central theme, emphasizing the desire to be free from the emotional weight the other person is imposing.

The song also touches on themes of change and disappointment. The line 'What happened to the girl I used to know?' suggests that the person the singer is addressing has changed for the worse, losing the qualities that were once admired. The references to 'fancy friends' and 'crazy nights' imply a lifestyle that the singer disapproves of, one that is perhaps superficial or reckless. The singer's request is clear: they want to return to a time before this negativity entered their life, and they are making a stand against the behaviors that are causing them distress.

The use of the word 'gross' in the bridge is interesting, as it deviates from the rest of the song's language. It could be interpreted as an expression of disgust or disappointment, further highlighting the singer's emotional state. Overall, 'Don't Bring Me Down' is a song about standing up for oneself, demanding respect, and seeking a return to happier times. It's a call to leave behind the things that weigh us down and to not let others' actions or attitudes negatively impact our own well-being.