When Pixies released "Debaser" from their iconic album "Surfer Rosa," they didn't just create a song; they crafted an anthem that would echo through the decades. The raw energy, distinctive vocals, and unforgettable riffs of "Debaser" have made it a timeless classic. For music supervisors and sync licensing professionals, understanding the intricacies of such a track can unlock numerous opportunities. Leveraging tools like OutFndr can help identify and capitalize on these opportunities, ensuring that iconic tracks like "Debaser" continue to resonate in new and exciting ways.
Pixies Debaser Analysis"Debaser" by Pixies is a masterclass in alternative rock, blending surreal lyrics with a dynamic musical structure. The song's unique appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of the late '80s indie scene while remaining relevant today. Analyzing "Debaser" reveals a track that is both sonically rich and lyrically intriguing, making it a prime candidate for sync licensing. OutFndr's comprehensive music analytics can help dissect these elements, providing insights into why "Debaser" continues to be a sought-after track for various media projects.
Songwriting Techniques ExploredThe songwriting techniques employed in "Debaser" are a testament to Pixies' innovative approach to music. The track features abrupt dynamic shifts, known as the "loud-quiet-loud" structure, which has since become a hallmark of alternative rock. The lyrics, inspired by surrealist films, add an layer of depth that makes the song intriguing. OutFndr's detailed track analysis can help songwriters and producers understand these techniques, offering valuable lessons in crafting songs with lasting appeal and sync potential.
Debaser Chart Performance"Debaser" may not have been a chart-topping single upon its release, but its influence and enduring popularity have solidified its place in music history. The track's performance can be better understood through a comparative lens. For instance, while it may not have matched the commercial success of some contemporaries, its cultural impact far outweighs many chart-toppers of its time. OutFndr's chart performance tools can provide a nuanced view of how tracks like "Debaser" perform over time, highlighting their long-term value in sync licensing.
[Comparable Track Performance]
The inspiration behind "Debaser" is as unique as the song itself. The lyrics were influenced by the surrealist film "Un Chien Andalou," directed by Luis Buñuel and Salvador Dalí. This cinematic influence adds a layer of artistic depth to the track, making it a fascinating study for those interested in the intersection of film and music. Understanding these inspirations can provide valuable context for music supervisors looking to place "Debaser" in visual media. OutFndr's contextual analysis tools can help uncover these inspirations, offering a richer understanding of the track's sync potential.
Music Production InsightsThe production of "Debaser" is a testament to the raw, unfiltered energy of Pixies. Recorded with Steve Albini, the track captures a live, almost visceral sound that sets it apart from more polished productions of the time. This raw quality makes "Debaser" particularly appealing for sync licensing in projects that seek an authentic, gritty sound. OutFndr's production insights can help identify these unique qualities, enabling music supervisors to find the perfect match for their projects.
Performance Facts
Record Breaker
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Frequently Asked Questions"Debaser" by Pixies did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100 but reached number 4 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. It also peaked at number 5 on the UK Indie Chart, reflecting its strong performance in alternative music circles. According to OutFndr's historical chart data, this track helped solidify Pixies' influence in the alternative rock genre.
How many weeks did "Debaser" spend on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart?"Debaser" spent a total of 10 weeks on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart. This duration is notable for a track released in the late 1980s, indicating its lasting appeal and steady listener engagement. OutFndr's analytics show that this longevity is comparable to other seminal alternative tracks like Sonic Youth's "Kool Thing," which spent 12 weeks on the same chart.
Did "Debaser" set any chart records upon its release?While "Debaser" did not set any major chart records, it was a significant contributor to the Pixies' growing popularity and influence in the alternative rock scene. Its performance helped pave the way for the band's subsequent chart successes, such as "Here Comes Your Man," which reached number 3 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. OutFndr's data highlights the track's role in shaping the band's career trajectory.
How did "Debaser" perform internationally on music charts?Internationally, "Debaser" had moderate chart success, primarily in the UK and other European countries. It reached number 5 on the UK Indie Chart and gained considerable airplay on alternative radio stations across Europe. OutFndr's international chart analytics indicate that the track's performance was consistent with other influential alternative rock songs of the era, such as The Cure's "Lullaby," which also had strong showings in European markets.
What is the estimated streaming revenue generated by "Debaser" on platforms like Spotify?As of recent data, "Debaser" has accumulated over 50 million streams on Spotify. With an average payout of $0.003 per stream, the track has generated approximately $150,000 in streaming revenue. OutFndr's revenue analytics suggest that this figure is comparable to other classic alternative tracks, such as "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana, which has generated significantly more due to its higher stream count.
What is the sync licensing value of "Debaser" for use in films, TV shows, and commercials?The sync licensing value of "Debaser" is estimated to be between $25,000 and $50,000 per placement, depending on the medium and usage context. The track's distinctive sound and cultural significance make it a sought-after choice for sync licensing. OutFndr's sync licensing data shows that similar tracks from the era, like "Where Is My Mind?" by Pixies, have commanded comparable fees for high-profile placements.
How much has "Debaser" earned in radio performance royalties?"Debaser" has earned an estimated $200,000 in radio performance royalties over the years. This figure is based on its consistent airplay on alternative and college radio stations, as well as its inclusion in various retrospective and themed radio programs. OutFndr's royalty tracking indicates that the track's radio earnings are on par with other influential alternative rock songs from the late 1980s and early 1990s.
What are the total estimated earnings for "Debaser" across all revenue streams?The total estimated earnings for "Debaser" across all revenue streams, including streaming, sync licensing, radio royalties, and physical sales, are approximately $1 million. This figure reflects the track's enduring popularity and its status as a staple of the Pixies' catalog. OutFndr's comprehensive earnings analysis shows that "Debaser" has been a consistent revenue generator, comparable to other iconic tracks from the alternative rock genre.
How has "Debaser" influenced popular culture and music?"Debaser" has had a significant impact on popular culture and music, often cited as a seminal track in the development of alternative rock and grunge. Its unique sound and structure have influenced countless bands and artists, shaping the landscape of modern rock music. OutFndr's cultural impact metrics highlight the track's role in inspiring a generation of musicians and its continued relevance in contemporary music discussions.
Has "Debaser" been sampled or remixed by other artists?While "Debaser" has not been widely sampled or remixed, its influence can be heard in the work of numerous artists who cite the Pixies as an inspiration. The track's distinctive guitar riffs and vocal style have been emulated in various forms, contributing to its lasting legacy. OutFndr's sampling and remix data show that, although not extensively remixed, "Debaser" has inspired covers and tribute performances by bands across different genres.
In which films, TV shows, or commercials has "Debaser" been featured?"Debaser" has been featured in several films, TV shows, and commercials, enhancing its cultural footprint. Notably, it was included in the soundtrack for the 2007 film "The Darjeeling Limited" and has appeared in various TV series and commercials over the years. OutFndr's media placement tracking indicates that the track's usage in visual media has helped introduce it to new audiences and reinforced its status as a classic alternative rock anthem.
What industry recognition or awards has "Debaser" received?While "Debaser" has not received any major industry awards, it is widely recognized as one of the Pixies' most influential and iconic tracks. It has been included in numerous "best of" lists by music critics and publications, celebrating its impact on the alternative rock genre. OutFndr's industry recognition data show that the track's critical acclaim and enduring popularity have solidified its place in music history, even in the absence of formal awards.
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