“Arabella” by Arctic Monkeys is a track from their 2013 album AM. Released as the album’s fifth single, the song blends the gritty essence of late ’90s hip-hop and R&B with the heavy, distorted sounds of ’70s hard rock. This fusion pays homage to iconic bands like Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin while maintaining the Arctic Monkeys’ distinct style.
One of the most notable aspects of “Arabella” is its live performance. The band often incorporates a snippet of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs” into the song during concerts. This highlights the musical similarities between the two tracks and gives frontman Alex Turner time to switch guitars for the solo. The shared riff between the songs adds a layer of nostalgia and intensity to the live rendition, making it a memorable moment for fans.
The track has become one of Arctic Monkeys’ most celebrated songs. In 2023, Rolling Stone and Paste magazine recognized its significance, ranking it among the top ten greatest Arctic Monkeys tracks—at number ten and four, respectively.
And so, who exactly is Arabella, the central figure of this song? What’s the true meaning behind the lyrics? Let’s dive into the story behind the song, uncovering the layers of meaning by Alex Turner. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the significance of “Arabella” through its lyrics and Turner’s vision.
“Arabella” Lyrics
Arabella’s got some interstellar gator skin boots
And a helter-skelter ’round her little finger, and I ride it endlessly
She’s got a Barbarella silver swimsuit
And when she needs to shelter from reality, she takes a dip in my daydreamsMy days end best when the sunset gets itself behind
That little lady sittin’ on the passenger side
It’s much less picturesque without her catchin’ the light
The horizon tries, but it’s just not as kind on the eyes
As Arabella, oh
As ArabellaJust might’ve tapped into your mind and soul
You can’t be sureArabella’s got a ’70s head
But she’s a modern lover, it’s an exploration she’s made of outer space
And her lips are like the galaxy’s edge
And her kiss the colour of a constellation fallin’ into placeMy days end best when the sunset gets itself behind
That little lady sittin’ on the passenger side
It’s much less picturesque without her catchin’ the light
The horizon tries, but it’s just not as kind on the eyes
As Arabella, oh
As ArabellaJust might’ve tapped into your mind and soul
You can’t be surein a cheetah print coat
(Just a slip) underneath it, I hope
(Askin’ if) I can have one of those
(Organic) cigarettes that she smokes
(Wraps her lips) ’round a Mexican Coke
(Makes you wish) that you were the bottle
(Takes a sip) of your soul, and it sounds likeJust might’ve tapped into your mind and soul
You can’t be sureArctic Monkeys – “Arabella“
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Alex Turner
Arabella lyrics © Emi Music Publishing Ltd
Arctic Monkeys “Arabella” Meaning
The song written by the Arctic Monkeys singer/songwriter Alex Turner is a captivating portrayal of a woman who blends fantasy and reality. Alex Turner’s lyrics describe her with cosmic and vintage flair, making her mysterious and alluring. The character of Arabella, with her “killer heels” and “interstellar gator skin boots,” seems larger than life, perfectly capturing the mix of seduction and intrigue that defines the song.
The song has always sparked much discussion among fans regarding its meaning and inspiration. Unsurprisingly, many people see “Arabella” as a reflection of Alex Turner’s relationship with Arielle Vandenberg. When Arctic Monkeys were working on AM, Turner was dating Vandenberg, a model and actress. The connection between “Arabella” and Arielle is more than just a play on names. The lyrics depict a down-to-earth and otherworldly character, which could be seen as Turner’s affectionate description of Vandenberg.
Lines like “She’s made of outer space” and “Her lips are like the galaxy’s edge” evoke an image of a woman who is both mysterious and captivating, much like how one might describe a lover who seems almost too perfect as if she’s not entirely of this world. Vandenberg’s influence on Turner’s songwriting during this period is well-documented, so it’s possible that “Arabella” is his tribute to her.
Also, there’s the reference to Barbarella, the iconic sci-fi character from Roger Vadim’s 1968 film, which adds another layer to the song’s complexion. Barbarella, portrayed by Jane Fonda, is the epitome of 1960s space-age glamour, blending sensuality with a sense of adventure. The film is a cult classic known for its campy yet visually stunning representation of a futuristic galaxy where Barbarella reigns as a warrior and a sex symbol.
‘Arielle’ and ‘Barnarella’ combine to form “Arabella”.
