Sheela-Na-Gig

PJ Harvey

About Sheela-Na-Gig

"Sheela-Na-Gig" is a song by English alternative rock singer-songwriter PJ Harvey, written solely by Harvey. The song was released as the second single from her debut studio album, Dry, in February 1992. The single was the second, and final, single from Dry and only single from the album to enter the charts in both the United Kingdom and United States. An accompanying music video, directed by Maria Mochnacz, was released alongside the single.


Year:
2006
3:23
134 

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer

I've been trying to show you over and over

Look at these, my child-bearing hips
Look at these, my ruby red ruby lips
Look at these my work strong arms and
You've got to see my bottle full of charm
I lay it all at your feet
You turn around and say back to me, "he said"

Sheela-na-gig, Sheela-na-gig
You exhibitionist
Sheela-na-gig, Sheela-na-gig
You exhibitionist

Gonna wash that man right out of my hair
Just like the first time, said he didn't care
Gonna wash that man right out of my hair
Heard it before, no more
Gonna wash that man right out of my hair
Turn the corner, another one there
Gonna wash that man right out of my hair
Heard it before, he said

Sheela-na-gig, Sheela-na-gig
You exhibitionist
Sheela-na-gig, Sheela-na-gig
You exhibitionist

Put money in your idle hole
Put money in your idle hole

Gonna wash that man right out of my hair
Just like the first time, said he didn't care
Gonna wash that man right out of my hair
Heard it before, no more
Gonna take my hips to a man who cares
Turn the corner, another one there
Gonna take my hips to a man who cares
Heard it before, he said

Sheela-na-gig, sheela-na-gig
You exhibitionist
Sheela-na-gig, sheela-na-gig
You exhibitionist
  
Put money in your idle hole
Put money in your idle hole

He said "wash your breasts, I don't want to be unclean"
He said "please take those dirty pillows away from me"
He said "wash your breasts, I don't want to be unclean"
He said "please take those dirty pillows away from me"

He said "wash your breasts, I don't want to be unclean"
He said "please take those dirty pillows away from me"
He said "wash your breasts, I don't want to be unclean"
He said "please take those dirty pillows away from me"

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


PJ Harvey

Polly Jean Harvey (born 9 October 1969) is an English musician, singer-songwriter, composer and occasional artist. Primarily known as a vocalist and guitarist, she is also proficient with a wide range of instruments including piano, organ, bass, saxophone, harmonica, and most recently, the autoharp. more »

6 fans

Written by: POLLY HARVEY

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


15 facts about this song

Album Release
"Sheela-Na-Gig" is a song from PJ Harvey's debut album, "Dry," released in 1992.
Single Release
"Sheela-Na-Gig" was released as the second single from "Dry."
Cultural Reference
The title "Sheela-Na-Gig" refers to Irish fertility symbols of an exaggerated, often skeletal woman displaying an enlarged vulva.
Song Composition
Tonally, "Sheela-Na-Gig" is a merger of post-punk and indie rock.
Songwriting
Like other songs on the album, "Sheela-Na-Gig" reveals Harvey's raw and honest lyricism, often confronting themes of feminine sexual expression, lust, and rejection.
Climbing the Charts
The song achieved moderate success, reaching #9 in the UK Indie Chart.
Critical Reception
"Sheela-Na-Gig" received positive critical reviews. It was praised for its feminist attitude, Harvey's vocal range, and her unique approach to songwriting.
Music Video
The music video for "Sheela-Na-Gig" was directed by Maria Mochnacz, who has collaborated with Harvey on numerous occasions.
Concert Staple
"Sheela-Na-Gig" has become a staple in PJ Harvey's concert setlists since its release.
Inspirational Role
The song played a significant role in propelling PJ Harvey into the forefront of '90s alternative rock and continues to inspire new generations of musicians with its powerful message.
Performances
Among notable performances of "Sheela-Na-Gig," is the one on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," marking PJ Harvey's first appearance on American television.
Cultural Impact
"Sheela-Na-Gig" has been used in popular culture in movies and tv shows, further increasing its influence.
Meaning
PJ Harvey has often refrained from explaining her songs, leaving many interpretations of "Sheela-Na-Gig." Some believe it to be a celebration of female sexuality, while others view it as a critique of societal views towards it.
Cover Versions
Various artists, including indie-folk singer Laura Marling, have covered "Sheela-Na-Gig," showing the song's lasting influence in the indie rock genre.
Guitarist Role
The song showcases Harvey's guitar skills, containing a distinctive guitar riff which adds a gritty and raw feel to the track.

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