02. Sabotage – Beastie Boys (1994)
Let’s put all debate aside: “Sabotage” is not a rock song. Yes, it features live instrumentation and resembles many rock tracks. But is “99 Problems” a rock song? No? Ok, let’s move on.
Allmusic.com describes the song as “monumental” and I could not come up with a more perfect descriptor. Ill Communication features some of the Beastie Boys’ most pressing, urgent songs and nowhere is that phenomenon more evident than “Sabotage.” The rock backing pulsates while paranoid lyrics spew harried tales of a personal Watergate. The Beasties lay this track down as if their lives depend on its communication. Of course, the accompanying video also adds to the lore, as the Spike Jonze-directed piece is one of the finest ever created.
notable lyrics:
I can’t stand it, I know you planned it
I’ma set it straight this Watergate
I can’t stand rockin’ when I’m in this place
Because I feel disgrace because you’re all in my face
But make no mistakes and wwitch up my channel
I’m Buddy Rich when I fly off the handle
What could it be, It’s a mirage
You’re scheming on a thing that’s sabotage.