ROCK MOMENT – Styx “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)
When Styx released “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)” in 1977, the song became one of the standout tracks from The Grand Illusion, an album that helped transform the Chicago-based band into one of the biggest rock acts of the era. Written by guitarist and vocalist Tommy Shaw, the song was inspired by the frustrations, insecurities and self-destructive attitude he saw in young people—including, to some degree, himself—during a turbulent period in the 1970s.
Shaw joined Styx in 1975, replacing guitarist John Curulewski, and quickly became an important creative force within the band. “Fooling Yourself” demonstrated the melodic and thoughtful songwriting style he would bring to Styx. Although the song has an upbeat, almost celebratory musical feel, its lyrics deal with a much darker subject: a person who is angry at the world but may actually be creating many of his own problems.
The “angry young man” in the song is essentially trapped in a cycle of bitterness. He sees himself as a victim, blames other people for his circumstances and refuses to recognize how his own behavior contributes to his unhappiness. The message is ultimately one of self-awareness: sometimes the person standing in your way is yourself.
Musically, Styx gave the song a surprisingly bright and sophisticated arrangement. Shaw’s acoustic guitar helps establish the song’s distinctive sound, while the band builds around it with electric guitars, keyboards, bass and drums. The contrast between the upbeat music and the serious lyrics gives “Fooling Yourself” much of its lasting appeal.
The Grand Illusion was a major turning point for Styx. The album reached the Top 10 and eventually sold millions of copies, establishing the band as a major force in album-oriented rock. “Fooling Yourself” also became a popular radio track and remains one of Tommy Shaw’s signature compositions.
More than four decades later, the song still resonates because its message is timeless. Anger can be powerful, but without self-reflection, it can become a trap. “Fooling Yourself” reminds listeners that growing up sometimes means taking an honest look in the mirror—and realizing that changing your circumstances may begin with changing yourself.
