A Young Man’s Lament: The Burden of Success and the Price of Fame
Ah, The Osmonds. For many of us who grew up in the 70s, their very name evokes a kaleidoscope of memories: vibrant matching outfits, dazzling smiles, and an almost impossibly wholesome image that seemed to emanate pure sunshine. But beneath the polished veneer of pop stardom, even the most beloved acts had their struggles, their moments of introspection, and their songs that hinted at the complexities of their lives. One such song, perhaps overlooked by some in the grand pantheon of their bubblegum hits, yet deeply resonant for those who truly listened, is “Business.”
Released in 1973, “Business” found its home on the album “The Plan,” an ambitious and surprisingly conceptual record that marked a departure from their earlier, more straightforward pop fare. While it didn’t achieve the dizzying heights of some of their prior chart-toppers like “One Bad Apple” or “Puppy Love,” “Business” still made a respectable showing, reaching number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100. For a group that had by then established themselves as hitmakers, a Top 40 entry was certainly a testament to their enduring popularity, even as they ventured into more mature lyrical territory.
The story behind “Business” is inextricably linked to the unique pressures and circumstances of The Osmonds’ lives. From a very young age, these brothers were thrust into the relentless machinery of the entertainment industry. They were not just performers; they were a meticulously managed enterprise, a brand built on family values and undeniable talent. But like any family business, especially one operating on a global scale, it came with its own set of demands, anxieties, and the ever-present weight of expectation. Donny, in particular, was the quintessential teen idol, his face adorning countless magazine covers and his voice filling the hearts of millions of adoring fans. Yet, even for someone living out what appeared to be every young performer’s dream, there was a profound sense of responsibility and, at times, a feeling of being consumed by the very thing that brought them success.
The meaning of “Business” is a poignant reflection on this very paradox. It’s a young man’s lament, expressing the weariness and emotional toll of being perpetually “on.” The lyrics speak of the relentless schedule, the constant travel, the demands of performance, and the feeling that their lives, their dreams, even their very identities, had become a commodity, a “business.” It’s a candid admission of vulnerability, a whisper in the midst of a roar, revealing that behind the dazzling smiles and synchronized dance moves lay human beings grappling with the immense pressure of their chosen path. The song beautifully captures that internal conflict – the gratitude for their success intertwined with the longing for a simpler existence, for a life where they could just be themselves, free from the constant scrutiny and commercial imperatives.
Listening to “Business” today, especially with the wisdom of hindsight, evokes a profound sense of empathy. It’s a reminder that even the most privileged lives come with their own burdens. For those of us who remember The Osmonds in their heyday, the song adds a layer of depth to their story, inviting us to look beyond the superficial and appreciate the human experience that underpinned their incredible journey. It’s a nostalgic journey back to a time when pop music, even from the most squeaky-clean acts, could offer surprisingly introspective moments, revealing the often-unseen struggles behind the glamorous facade. And for that, “Business” remains a quietly powerful and deeply resonant piece of their musical legacy.