In the late 1980s, when hair metal reigned supreme, “Seventeen” exploded onto the scene, a track from Winger’s self-titled 1988 debut. It’s a song that, for better or worse, became an anthem of that era, encapsulating both the exuberance and the controversies that defined that particular moment in music history.
Winger, with their undeniable musical prowess, crafted a track that’s undeniably catchy. The driving riffs, the soaring vocals, and the polished production all contribute to its undeniable hook. However, it’s the song’s lyrical content that has sparked decades of debate. The subject matter, dealing with an older man’s infatuation with an underage girl, has aged very poorly, and in today’s world is rightfully seen as problematic.
For the mature listener, “Seventeen” presents a complex listening experience. On one hand, it’s a nostalgic trip back to a specific era of rock music. On the other hand, it serves as a stark reminder of how societal attitudes and sensibilities have evolved. The song’s enduring notoriety lies in its ability to spark conversation, even if that conversation is often uncomfortable.
In a musical landscape that’s constantly being re-evaluated, “Seventeen” stands as a fascinating, if problematic, artifact of its time. It’s a song that forces us to confront the uncomfortable realities of the past, and to consider how our understanding of art and morality continues to shift. It is important to understand the context of the era it was written in, while also understanding it does not align with todays standards.