Billy Idol

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Don’t Need a Gun album cover

Don’t Need a Gun

Billy Idol

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
A human heart goes out tonight
Yes, a red hot love on a red stop light
I see a scene, so cold it echoes in blue
Oh, those twisting tongues, they are after you

[Pre-Chorus]
Wop bop a lu bop, Son, you gotta move up
Flip flop fly
Lawdy Miss Clawdy
Oh, what a story dreams to buy
Don't need a knife to violate my life
It's all so insane

[Chorus]
When the other man has none
You don't need a gun
Yes a Russian roulette, no fun
I don't need a gun
I just need someone
I don't need a gun

[Verse 2]
Blood red lights a domination street
Yeah, I just need your love, and I feel that heat
Yeah, you can drive me through
That red stop light
With a whiplash smile, Woahhh!
[Pre-Chorus]
Wop bop a lu bop, yeah, you gotta move up
Flip flop fly
Lawdy Miss Clawdy
Oooh, what a story dreams to buy
Don't need a knife to violate my life
It's all so insane

[Chorus]
I say when the other man has none
You don't need a gun
A Russian roulette, no fun
I don't need a gun, yeah I just need someone
I won't need a gun
Oh yeah

[Bridge]
You will always be crying, yeah
Oh, you will always be dying
Oh, you will always be dying

[Verse 3]
Elvis, a fight, the dying light
Johnnie Ray, he's always crying
Gene Vincent, he cried, "Who slapped John, John, John"
Yes and me, I'm movin', movin', movin', movin' on
Yeah, to be someone
I don't need a gun
I don't need a gun
I don't need a gun
[Ad libs continue]
You will always be crying
....Embed

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Don't Need a Gun by Billy Idol is a classic rock song that was released in 1986. The song is part of the album Whiplash Smile which was a commercial success, peaking at number six on the US Billboard 200 chart and generating several hit singles.

About Don’t Need a Gun

The song’s lyrics were written by Billy Idol himself and talk about the dangers of relying on a gun as a means of protection. The song has a fast-paced beat and a catchy chorus that makes for a great listening experience. "Don't Need a Gun" has been described as a hard-edged rocker that showcases Billy Idol's unique voice and his ability to create irresistible hooks.

The song begins with a riff that sets the tone for the rest of the song. Billy Idol’s voice comes in, confident and clear, as he sings about the state of the world and how people turn to weapons as a means of protection. He then goes on to say that he doesn't need a gun to protect himself, that he will rely on his own strength and wits to get by. The chorus is a simple but effective repetition of the phrase "don't need a gun".

One of the most interesting aspects of "Don't Need a Gun" is the political commentary that can be found in the lyrics. The song was released during the Cold War era in which nuclear war was a very real fear. Billy Idol, who was vocal about his political views, used his music as a platform to express his opinions about the state of the world. The lyrics of "Don't Need a Gun" reflect this, as they talk about the dangers of relying on weapons as a means of protection.

The melody of the song is made up of fast-paced guitar riffs and a strong beat. The guitar solo towards the end of the song is particularly engaging and showcases the skill of the musicians involved. The song clocks in at just over five minutes, but the energy and tempo of the song make it feel much shorter.

The music video for "Don't Need a Gun" is an interesting visual representation of the song's message. The video is set in a post-apocalyptic world, with Billy Idol walking through a city that has been destroyed by nuclear war. The video features clips of buildings exploding, and people running for their lives. The video ends with Billy Idol ripping a gun in two, symbolically rejecting violence as a means of solving problems.

"Don't Need a Gun" is a timeless classic that still resonates today. Its message about relying on one's own strength and wits is as relevant now as it was when the song was first released. The song's catchy melody and Billy Idol's unique voice make it a must-listen for anyone who loves classic rock music.

Wrapping up

In short, "Don't Need a Gun" is a classic rock song that deals with political and social issues that are still relevant today. With its catchy melody and strong beat, the song is a testament to Billy Idol's unique talent as a musician and songwriter. Whether you're a fan of classic rock or just appreciate a well-crafted song, "Don't Need a Gun" is a must-listen that is sure to stand the test of time.

  • Release Date: October 20, 1986
  • Artist: Billy Idol