Declan McKenna “Champagne / That’s Life” Music Review

Written by Emily Rabeno

Published on November 10, 2024

“Champagne / That’s Life” by Declan McKenna was released as part of McKenna’s discography in 2023, and showcases his talent for pairing infectious indie-pop melodies with lyrics that cut deep into societal issues and personal struggles. Known for tackling political themes with a sardonic edge, McKenna’s music often appeals to those who find themselves disillusioned by the state of the world, and “Champagne / That’s Life” is no exception.

In this song, McKenna brings a sense of contrast, both lyrically and musically. “Champagne” shows the image of celebration, self-gratification, and wealth, a lifestyle that might seem attractive but ultimately feels empty and lonely. He plays on the idea that we often look for things that are supposed to bring fulfillment, yet they often end up being a short time of happiness, much like champagne itself, which fizzes out quickly after being poured.

Lyrically, McKenna uses irony and satire, adding layers to the song’s meaning. “That’s life” is a resigned phrase people use to justify or dismiss the unfairness of life, and McKenna repurposes it to reflect both frustration and acceptance of these realities. Lines in the song hint at a desire to escape from materialistic things, yet he reveals how this idea fails to bring true satisfaction. Through these lyrics, McKenna explores the numbness that shows a life lived on autopilot—an existence where we’re often chasing high points in life (champagne, so to speak) to avoid confronting the darker sides of our lives.

Musically, “Champagne / That’s Life” mixes indie pop and rock influences with McKenna’s signature flair. The song’s upbeat, almost celebratory sound goes with the sometimes bleak lyrics that have become characteristic of his style. The instrumentation is energetic, even danceable, pulling the listener in with catchy rhythms and an infectious melody. 

This closeness between sound and meaning is essential to McKenna’s approach. By pairing upbeat instrumentals with disillusioned lyrics, he illustrates the tension between how things look on the surface and the reality underneath.

In many ways, “Champagne / That’s Life” reflects McKenna’s broader musical standards, combining catchy tunes with substance. He draws inspiration from musicians like David Bowie and Bob Dylan, known for their willingness to confront the status quo while creating songs that remain relevant across generations. 

Ultimately, “Champagne / That’s Life” by Declan McKenna is more than just a song; it’s a social commentary packaged in with an extremely catchy tune. With wit, irony, and infectious energy, McKenna examines the themes of emptiness, indulgence, and the contradictions of modern life. 

Now, Mckenna is on tour opening for Sabrina Carpenter on her “Short n’ Sweet Tour” from November 1st till November 15th and he just finished his own small headline tour a week prior.