Cell Block Tango

The song 'Cell Block Tango' from the TV show 'Glee' is a darkly humorous and theatrical piece that delves into the stories of six women incarcerated in Cook County Jail. Each woman recounts the events that led to her committing murder, with a recurring refrain of 'He had it coming,' suggesting that their actions were justified by the behavior of their victims. The song is a powerful exploration of themes like betrayal, revenge, and the thin line between justice and vengeance.

The lyrics are structured around the women's confessions, each punctuated by the rhythmic chant of 'Pop, Six, Squish, Uh uh, Cicero, Lipschitz!' This chant serves as a mnemonic device, helping the audience remember the sequence of events and the names of the women involved. The stories are filled with dark humor and irony, such as the woman who shoots her husband for popping gum or the one who poisons her bigamist lover with arsenic. These exaggerated tales highlight the absurdity and extremity of their actions, making the song both shocking and entertaining.

Culturally, 'Cell Block Tango' taps into the fascination with crime and punishment, particularly the idea of women taking drastic measures against their oppressors. The song also reflects the broader themes of the musical 'Chicago,' from which it originates, where the lines between right and wrong are blurred, and the media sensationalizes crime. The Glee rendition maintains the original's satirical tone, emphasizing the performative aspect of the women's confessions and the societal tendency to judge without understanding the full context.

The song's blend of dark humor, theatricality, and social commentary makes it a compelling piece that resonates with audiences, inviting them to question their perceptions of justice and morality.