Pumped Up Kicks

About this song

Foster said in a 2011 Rolling Stone interview that he was trying to get inside the head of an isolated, psychotic kid. In the same interview he described the song as a kind of 'fuck you' to hipsters, while noting that hipsters would still want to dance to it. In a 2011 USA Today interview, Foster said the song is not about condoning violence and described it as a way to talk with kids about a serious subject.

What it's about

The song is narrated by Robert, who dreams of violence toward his wealthy classmates and peers. It lays out his plans and ambitions for a school shooting and explores what drives his feelings.

Fun facts

• Sampled in 22 other songs, like “Pumped up Kicks by HBz & Luca Riccobono”.
• Covered 32 times, including “Pan con aji by Tongo”.
• Written and produced by Mark Foster.
• Recorded at Mophonics (Venice.