The Cranberries

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Another head hangs lowly
Child is slowly taken
And the violence caused such silence
Who are we mistaken?

[Pre-Chorus]
But you see, it's not me, it's not my family
In your head, in your head, they are fightin'
With their tanks and their bombs and their bombs and their guns
In your head, in your head, they are cryin'

[Chorus]
In your head, in your head
Zombie, zombie, zombie-ie-ie
What's in your head, in your head?
Zombie, zombie, zombie-ie-ie-ie, oh

[Post-Chorus]
Du, du, du, du
Du, du, du, du
Du, du, du, du
Du, du, du, du

[Verse 2]
Another mother's breakin'
Heart is takin' over
When the violence causes silence
We must be mistaken
[Pre-Chorus]
It's the same old theme, since 1916
In your head, in your head, they're still fightin'
With their tanks and their bombs and their bombs and their guns
In your head, in your head, they are dyin'

[Chorus]
In your head, in your head
Zombie, zombie, zombie-ie-ie
What's in your head, in your head?
Zombie, zombie, zombie-ie-ie-ie, oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, eh-eh-oh, ra-ra

[Instrumental Outro]

Get ready to be transported to the heart-wrenching reality of “The Troubles” in Northern Ireland with The Cranberries’ iconic song, “Zombie.” This powerful track serves as a poignant reflection of the violence and conflict that plagued the region for decades. Written by the talented Dolores O'Riordan during the band's English tour in 1993, the song was composed in memory of two innocent young boys, Tim Parry and Johnathan Ball, who tragically lost their lives in an IRA bombing. With heartfelt lyrics and a ferocious musical backdrop, “Zombie” stands as a resounding cry against man’s inhumanity to man and the need for an end to the violence.

About Zombie

As one of their most remarkable and impactful songs, “Zombie” encapsulates the essence of The Cranberries' musical and lyrical prowess. The band's lead vocalist, Dolores O'Riordan, penned this anguished anthem during their 1993 tour, compelled by the devastating true events that unfolded in Warrington, England. The tragic deaths of Tim Parry, just 12 years old, and Johnathan Ball, aged just 3, in an IRA bombing shook the world and served as a catalyst for O'Riordan to craft a heartfelt tribute that would resonate with audiences across the globe.

With a driving and hauntingly melodic sound, “Zombie” boldly confronts the violence and brutality that ravaged Northern Ireland during “The Troubles.” This decades-long conflict pitted nationalists, primarily self-identified as Irish or Roman Catholic, against unionists, predominantly self-identified as British or Protestant. The song serves as an unyielding cry for peace and an end to the agony that countless individuals experienced in this tumultuous era.

When The Cranberries took to the stage at The Astoria in London in January 1994, Dolores O'Riordan used the performance of “Zombie” as a platform to voice her frustration and to demand change. Speaking to the audience, she passionately declared that the song was their collective outcry against the violence not only in London but also the war in Northern Ireland. O'Riordan pleaded with fervor for the bloodshed and animosity to cease, emphasizing the importance of cherishing the lives of innocent individuals, particularly children.

Throughout “Zombie,” Dolores O'Riordan's emotive vocals cut through the powerful instrumentation, capturing the raw emotions and pain experienced by those affected by the violence. Her impassioned delivery echoes the anguish felt by countless individuals, evoking a sense of urgency and a call to action. The lyrics themselves unfurl as a potent critique of man's inhumanity, with lines like "What's in your head? / In your head / Zombie, zombie, zombie" questioning the motivations and consciousness of those perpetuating violence.

The instrumentation in “Zombie” intensifies the song's impact, building layer upon layer of sonic intensity. The driving rhythm and thundering guitar riffs create a relentless musical backdrop that mirrors the unyielding nature of the conflict being addressed. The chorus, propelled by a captivating melody, acts as a cathartic release, inviting listeners to join in the powerful anthem and make their own stand against violence.

Released as the lead single from their second studio album, "No Need to Argue," “Zombie” became an instant sensation, resonating with audiences worldwide. Its universal message and emotional depth transcended borders and touched the hearts of millions. The song not only topped charts but also secured a permanent place in music history, cementing The Cranberries' legacy as one of the most influential bands of their time.

In the two decades since its release, “Zombie” continues to leave an indelible mark on listeners. Its relevance and cultural impact have not diminished, serving as a timeless reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and the urgent need for peace. As we listen to this haunting melody, let us reflect on the powerful legacy of The Cranberries and the role music plays in raising awareness, sparking conversations, and ultimately striving for a more compassionate world.

So, let the searing vocals and formidable instrumentation of “Zombie” transport you to a time when the pursuit of peace was paramount. Allow yourself to be moved by the raw emotions and impassioned plea for change that resonates through every note. Because, in the end, it is through unity and understanding that we can overcome the zombies of violence and create a better world.

• Release Date: September 14, 1994
• Artist: The Cranberries