Here's what the song "Sledgehammer" is about:
1. Love as a Powerful Force: The song describes love as a powerful, relentless force that, like a sledgehammer, can shatter barriers and break resistance. Gabriel uses the metaphor of a sledgehammer to convey the relentless pursuit of love.
2. African Rhythm: The song prominently features African rhythms, particularly in its percussions and drumbeats, creating a dynamic and energetic soundscape that evokes a sense of urgency and passion.
3. Desire and Longing: Gabriel explores the yearning for a romantic connection, the desire for union with another person, and the powerful impact that love can have on one's emotions and thoughts.
4. Metaphorical Imagery: Throughout the song, Gabriel employs metaphorical imagery to describe the intensity of love's hold. References to "fingers like a ten-ton hammer" and the "thunderbolts of lightning" symbolize the overwhelming power of love.
5. Sexual Desire: The song carries an undercurrent of sexual attraction and desire, as suggested by the lyrics like, "I want to rock you like a sledgehammer baby" and "I'm gonna break you down."
6. Building a Bridge: The song also includes the concept of building a bridge, representing the connection between two people or the desire to overcome barriers in a relationship.
7. Music Video Symbolism: The music video for "Sledgehammer" features stop-motion animation and various surreal imagery, mirroring the song's lyrical metaphors and enhancing the overall impact of the theme of love's powerful force.
Overall, Peter Gabriel's "Sledgehammer" explores the profound impact and transformative nature of love, depicting it as an unstoppable force that can overcome any obstacles and leave a mark on one's soul. The song's blend of percussive rhythms, synthesizer-based sounds, and intricate production techniques further amplifies its powerful message.