Van Halen

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
We was broke and hungry on a summer day
They sent the sheriff down to try and drive us away
We was sittin' ducks for the policeman
They found a dirty faced kid in a garbage can

[Chorus]
And I'm alone
I'm on the highway
Wanted dead or alive
Dead or alive

[Verse 2]
Broken down and dirty, dressed in rags
From the day my mama told me "Boy, you pack your bags"
Send the mayor down in his pickup truck
The jury look at me, say, "Outta luck!"

[Chorus]
And I'm alone
I'm on the highway
Wanted dead or alive
Dead or alive

[Guitar Solo]
[Verse 3]
Now, I'm broken down and dirty, dressed in rags
From the day my mama told me "Boy, you pack your bags"
We was sittin' ducks for the policeman
They found a dirty faced kid in a garbage can

[Chorus]
And I'm alone
I'm on the highway
Wanted dead or alive
Dead or alive

[Guitar Solo]Embed

Van Halen is one of the most iconic rock bands in the history of music with a unique sound and style that set them apart from their peers. Their 1982 hit song, D.O.A., is a fast-paced heavy metal anthem that showcases Van Halen's musical prowess and technical skills. The song is a perfect example of how the band incorporates complex guitar riffs, hard-hitting drums, and powerful vocals to create a sound that is both unique and timeless. In this article, we will examine the meaning and significance of D.O.A. by Van Halen, breaking down each component of the track and analyzing why it has stood the test of time.

About D.O.A.

D.O.A. is the opening track of Van Halen's fifth studio album, "Diver Down," which was released in 1982. The song was written by Eddie Van Halen, Alex Van Halen, David Lee Roth, and Michael Anthony, the original members of the band. D.O.A. stands for "Dead On Arrival," which refers to someone who is going to die soon or someone who is already dead. The lyrics of D.O.A. are cryptic and enigmatic, with no clear storyline or message. However, the song's title and lyrics suggest something ominous and foreboding, which further adds to its appeal and intrigue.

One of the most captivating aspects of D.O.A. is its fast-paced and intricate guitar riff, which is played by Eddie Van Halen, one of the best guitarists in the history of rock music. The guitar riff is accompanied by Alex Van Halen's drums, which are powerful and pounding, serving as a perfect complement to the guitar work. The bassline, played by Michael Anthony, is simple but effective, providing a solid foundation for the rest of the band to build on.

David Lee Roth's vocals are another highlight of D.O.A. His singing is fierce and unapologetic, perfectly embodying the rebellious and anti-establishment spirit of the song. Roth's lyrics are cryptic and ambiguous, making it difficult to decipher what he is trying to say. However, some suggest that D.O.A. is a metaphor for the decline of the American dream or a reflection of the political and social turmoil of the time.

Another factor that contributes to the enduring popularity of D.O.A. is its catchy chorus, which is easy to sing along to and has become a fan-favorite. The chorus features David Lee Roth repeating the phrase "Oh, no, no!" multiple times, which serves as a perfect hook for the song. The chorus is preceded by an electrifying guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, which showcases his immense talent and creativity.

Overall, D.O.A. is a masterpiece of heavy metal and hard rock music that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among rock fans around the world. With its stunning guitar work, powerful vocals, and enigmatic lyrics, D.O.A. exemplifies why Van Halen is one of the most important and influential bands in the history of music.

• Release Date: March 23, 1979
• Artist: Van Halen