Xtc, "dear God" ◆ 〈FREE〉

XTC 's "Dear God," written by Andy Partridge, is one of the most polarizing and enduring tracks of the 1980s. Originally released as a B-side to the single "Grass" in 1986, it was excluded from the initial pressing of the album Skylarking because Partridge felt he had "failed" to capture the vastness of human belief in such a short song. However, intense radio play in the United States—driven by its controversial lyrics—forced a re-release of the album that included the track. The Inspiration and Composition

: Partridge initially conceived the song in a skiffle style but moved toward a sound reminiscent of the Beatles' "Rocky Raccoon". The final version features a "Gershwin-y" string section intended to evoke a bluesy, "Summertime" atmosphere. XTC, "Dear God"

: A central thesis of the song is the idea that mankind created God, rather than the other way around: "Did you make mankind after we made you?". XTC 's "Dear God," written by Andy Partridge,

Upon its American release, "Dear God" became a lightning rod for controversy. Some radio stations received bomb threats, and at least one DJ was reportedly held at knifepoint to stop the song from playing. Despite (or because of) this, the song’s music video won the Billboard Best Video award in 1987. Upon its American release, "Dear God" became a

: The title and concept were inspired by a series of children's books titled Dear God , which Partridge viewed as exploitative.