Songs With Great Sound but Evil Lyrics: A Hetman’s Guide
Music is often a powerful tool to convey emotion and tell a story, but sometimes, the story itself can be dark and disturbing. In the realm of rock and metal music, there are numerous songs that highlight great musical prowess combined with deeply unsettling or evil lyrics. These songs have garnered a cult following, admired for their haunting melodies and profound, often satanic, messages.
Introduction
The convergence of great sound and profoundly evil lyrics can sometimes create a paradoxical yet compelling listening experience. One such example is ‘Holly Holy’ by Neil Diamond, which showcases a subtle error in lyrics that still allows the song to maintain its impact. Another, more overtly sinister example, is Iron Maiden’s 'Number of the Beast'.
Neil Diamond's 'Holly Holy': A Twist in the Lyrics
Neil Diamond's hit song 'Holly Holy' is a great example of a song with a double meaning in its lyrics. Despite the mispronunciation or mishearing of the word 'Sea' as 'Sieb sieve', the sentiment remains powerful. The song’s misheard lyrics leave a lasting impression, and this slight editorial glitch becomes part of its appeal. The layer of ambiguity and the listener’s interpretation add to the song’s intrigue and depth.
Iron Maiden’s 'Number of the Beast': A Lesson in Satanic Themes
If you're seeking a song with truly evil and satanic lyrics, Iron Maiden's 'Number of the Beast' is a prime example. The song takes listeners on a dark journey through satanic rituals and terrifying imagery, blending powerful heavy metal with chilling themes.
The Opening Verse
The opening verse of the song is a literal paraphrase from the Book of Revelation, a warning from the Bible about the inevitability of evil. The lyrics slowly build into a more sinister tone, revealing the true intent behind the Beast.
Woe to you oh earth and sea
For the devil sends the beast with wrath
Because he knows the time is short
Let him who hath understanding reckon the number of the beast
For it is a human number
Its number is six hundred and sixty-six
The Song’s Evolution
The song then transitions into a first-person narrative, describing the narrator's descent into a nightmarish vision. The lyrics, riddled with dark imagery and a sense of impending doom, create an urgent and compelling atmosphere:
I left alone, my mind was blank
I needed time to think
To get the memories from my mind
What did I see, can I believe
That what I saw that night was real and not just fantasy
The Main Chorus
The chorus forms the central theme of the song, repeating the number of the Beast (666) and describing the rituals and sacrifices associated with the evil entity:
Six six six the number of the beast
Hell and fire was spawned to be released
Torches blazed and sacred chants were praised
As they start to cry hands held to the sky
In the night the fires are burning bright
The ritual has begun, Satan’s work is done
Six six six the number of the beast
Sacrifice is going on tonight
Conclusion and Impact
The song’s powerful musical arrangement and the horror it evokes create a haunting experience that is both thrilling and unsettling. The lyrics, though disturbing, are compelling and leave a lasting impression on the listener. 'Number of the Beast' serves as a reminder of the potential for dark and unsettling themes in music, and the power of both great sound and ominous lyrics to captivate and influence.
No matter your musical taste, whether you prefer the subtle ambiguity of Neil Diamond or the overt terror in Iron Maiden, these songs offer a glimpse into the boundary-pushing world of music. Enjoy the ride, but be aware of what you’re putting into your ears.