“Disco 2000” is a brilliant song and was released on the band’s legendary album Different Class as the third single. The record is Jarvis Cocker at his lyrical best and makes you wonder about whether his tales are fact or fiction. So that begs the question, is Disco 2000 true? As with many songs, there are elements of fact and fiction throughout.
The answer is mostly, yes! While most lyricists use a pseudonym when using someone else’s name in a song, the Deborah mentioned was real. As for the rest of the lyrics, Cocker has said that the only details that weren’t exactly correct are being born within an hour of each other (it was about three) and the woodchip on the wall.
The Story Behind The Song
Knowing that the story is true makes the song even better. Even parts like the “fountain down the road” refer to Goodwin Fountain which was located in Sheffield city centre. Cocker did fancy Deborah and had to watch all the more popular boys chase after her and she eventually got married, which is of course referenced in the song as well.
Sadly, Deborah is no longer with us but she was a brilliant person who achieved a lot in her life. Her full name was Deborah Bone and she received an MBE for services to children’s mental health. She was diagnosed with cancer in 2013 and passed away in 2015 at the age of 51. Deborah documented her time with the disease on her own blog, which is a touching read. She was honoured for her work in creating “BrainBox” which is a resource to help children and adults improve their mental health.
A lovely fact about Deborah and Jarvis is that they stayed in touch. This eventually led to him being invited to her 50th birthday party and singing “Disco 2000” for her and all of the guests. It was a beautiful moment, even with the lyrics having many sexual references! The song was always taken in good humor and is quite simply a phenomenal track.
Is Disco 2000 True?
Well, now you know the truth! Is Disco 2000 true? Absolutely! Not only is it true but there is a touching story behind the lyrics. It tells of an incredible woman and Jarvis Cocker making her 5oth birthday party extra special.