Who's behind the notes? Discover Fall Out Boy: Biography of the American Rock Band
"Centuries" is a song by the American rock band Fall Out Boy, released in 2014 as the lead single from their sixth studio album, "American Beauty/American Psycho." Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Sampling of Suzanne Vega: The song prominently features a sample from Suzanne Vega's 1987 hit "Tom's Diner." The recognizable "doo doo doo, doo doo-doo doo" chant in "Centuries" is taken from Vega's acapella version of the song.
Historical Inspirations: The lyrics of "Centuries" draw inspiration from historical figures and events. The chorus includes the famous line "Mummified my teenage dreams," reflecting on the enduring nature of dreams and ambitions.
Commercial Success: "Centuries" was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in multiple countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also achieved multi-platinum certification in several countries.
Pepsi NFL Anthem: The song gained additional popularity when it was selected as the anthem for the 2014 Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Year Award. Its anthemic and energetic sound made it a fitting choice for sports-related events and promotions.
Cultural Impact: "Centuries" became a cultural phenomenon, often used in various sports events, commercials, and trailers. Its anthemic and motivational qualities made it a popular choice for pumping up crowds and creating a sense of excitement.
Music Video: The music video for "Centuries" features a storyline that connects the band's performance with scenes of gladiators in a Roman-style arena. The video enhances the historical and epic themes present in the song's lyrics.
Chart Performance: The song performed well on various music charts, not only in the United States but also internationally. It helped propel Fall Out Boy back into the mainstream spotlight after a brief hiatus.
"Centuries" remains one of Fall Out Boy's most well-known and successful songs, showcasing their ability to blend rock elements with catchy hooks and memorable lyrics.