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10 Angriest Songs in Rock Music
When thinking about the angriest songs in rock music, many people’s initial thought is to list only songs by metal bands. However, that is an oversimplification. This genre encompasses a wide range of sub-styles, and there are various ways to express anger and frustration.
In this article, we present 10 songs that showcase anger, aggression, and frustration in the classic rock genre. These songs are from the mainstream, and we tried to choose a mix of songs from various time periods and styles.
# 1 – Tie: Anarchy In The U.K. & God Save The Queen
The Sex Pistols were an innovative band that revolutionized music. Their songs were never pleasant, and they were genuinely enraged. We couldn’t pick one song, so we decided to end our list with a tie between two songs from their iconic album, "Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols."
#2 You’re Breakin’ My Heart – Harry Nilsson
Relationship breakups can be overwhelming. That’s exactly what Harry Nilsson captures in his song "You’re Breakin’ My Heart." With one song, Nilsson tells the story of a broken heart. His songs were always filled with sadness, anxiety, and anger.
#3 Barracuda – Heart
People often overlook the anger behind this rock ballad. Ann Wilson penned the lyrics in response to the rumors of manipulation and betrayal by record labels at the time. The song’s power came from its raw emotion, anger, and Wilson’s incredible vocals.
#4 Dyers Eve – Metallica
Metallica has multiple songs that could fit this list, and it was difficult to pick one. Our choice is "Dyers Eve." The song explores the sense of despair and frustration that comes with newfound freedom after leaving one’s family behind.
#5 Hell Broke Luce – Tom Waits
One of Tom Waits’ most provocative songs, "Hell Broke Luce," is a call against war. The song’s lyrics, although cryptic, convey Waits’ deep-seated anger at humanity’s destructive nature.
#6 Mother Mother – Tracy Bonham
Few songs capture the anger that emerges from hiding one’s true emotions to appease others. Tracy Bonham’s "Mother Mother" conveys this sentiment, exposing one’s frustration and feelings once the mask is removed.
#7 You Oughta Know – Alanis Morissette
Alanis Morissette’s "You Oughta Know" is a rage-filled, post-breakup anthem that cuts to the bone. The song captures anger, betrayal, and the intensity one feels when a relationship ends abruptly.
#8 Undertow – Tool
Grunge revolutionized music in the 1990s. Tool, a band within the sub-genre, brought anger through a unique blend of heavy, experimental metal and intricate lyrics. "Undertow" showcases this anger, presenting raw, emotional intensity.
#9 War – System Of A Down
System of a Down produced an album that captured a lot of societal angst. "War" expresses fear, anxiety, and anger over potential destruction. The song’s themes also reflect the band’s frustration at finding their place in the world.
#10 – Born To Raise Hell – Motörhead
Forced to start our list, Lemmy Kilmister created an anthem that embodies his fierce energy and anger. "Born To Raise Hell" is a song for warriors, showcasing the band’s strength and determination.
Conclusion
From war and relationships to rebellion and dissatisfaction, the 10 songs we explored on this list showcase anger expressed through various forms of rock music. No two songs are alike, reflecting not only the artists’ individual talents but also the diverse contexts behind the lyrics.
FAQs
- Does the list only include metal songs? Nope! We aimed to showcase the genre through a variety of styles and emotions, without solely focusing on metal.
Do you have a favorite angry song that doesn’t make this list? Feel free to share it with us!
