The Meaning Behind The Song: Raining Blood by Slayer
“Raining Blood” by Slayer is one of the most iconic songs in the heavy metal genre. The intense, fast-paced tempo paired with the dark lyrics paint a picture of chaos and destruction. The song is known for its iconic opening riff and for being a staple of Slayer’s live performances.
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However, many people might not know the deep meaning behind the song. In this article, we’ll dive into the history and meaning behind “Raining Blood” by Slayer.
The History of “Raining Blood”
“Raining Blood” was released in 1986 on Slayer’s third album, “Reign in Blood.” The album is considered a landmark in the history of thrash metal, and “Raining Blood” is one of its most famous songs.
The lyrics were written by Slayer’s vocalist, Tom Araya, and the music was composed by Slayer’s guitarist, Jeff Hanneman. According to Araya, the song was based on a nightmare he had:
“I had a dream, and it was raining blood. I woke up and told Jeff about it, and he came up with the song.”
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The song’s opening riff was inspired by a piece of music Hanneman had been working on, which he intended to use as the theme song for a horror movie.
The song’s lyrics deal with themes of violence, death, and destruction, which were common in Slayer’s music. However, the way in which these themes are presented in “Raining Blood” is particularly intense and disturbing.
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics to “Raining Blood” are both poetic and harrowing. They describe a world where violence and chaos reign:
“Trapped in purgatory
A lifeless object, alive
Awaiting reprisal
Death will be their acquisition”
The song’s title refers to a world where blood literally falls from the sky. The lyrics paint a picture of death and destruction, with lines like:
“Decapitation, death’s creation
Bloodless limbs, flesh on the ground”
The final lyrics of the song are particularly haunting. They describe a world where there is no hope for escape or redemption:
“Why don’t you die?
Your blood’s running cold
Send shivers down your spine
As you’re begging for mercy”
Overall, the lyrics of “Raining Blood” paint a picture of a world plagued by violence and where death is inevitable.
The Impact of “Raining Blood”
“Raining Blood” has had a significant impact on the heavy metal genre. The song’s intense tempo and dark lyrics influenced a generation of heavy metal musicians. It’s often cited as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time and is a staple of Slayer’s live shows.
The song’s impact can be seen in the fact that it’s been covered by countless bands over the years. The song has also been featured in several movies and TV shows.
FAQs
1. What inspired the lyrics of “Raining Blood”?
The lyrics of “Raining Blood” were inspired by a nightmare Slayer’s vocalist, Tom Araya, had. The dream featured blood falling from the sky, and Araya shared the dream with Slayer’s guitarist, Jeff Hanneman, who composed the song’s opening riff.
2. What is the meaning behind the song’s title?
The song’s title refers to a world where blood literally falls from the sky.
3. Who wrote the lyrics to “Raining Blood”?
The lyrics were written by Slayer’s vocalist, Tom Araya.
4. What impact did “Raining Blood” have on heavy metal?
“Raining Blood” had a significant impact on the heavy metal genre. The song’s intense tempo and dark lyrics influenced a generation of heavy metal musicians. It’s often cited as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time and is a staple of Slayer’s live shows.
5. What other songs are on Slayer’s album, “Reign in Blood”?
“Reign in Blood” features classic Slayer songs like “Angel of Death,” “Necrophobic,” and “Criminally Insane.”
6. What movies and TV shows has “Raining Blood” been featured in?
“Raining Blood” has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including “Jackass: The Movie,” “Legion,” and “South Park.”
7. What is the tempo of “Raining Blood”?
The tempo of “Raining Blood” is incredibly fast, with a time signature of 4/4 and a BPM of 220.
8. Who produced “Reign in Blood”?
“Reign in Blood” was produced by Rick Rubin.
9. What other iconic songs did Slayer release?
Slayer has released many iconic songs over the years, including “Angel of Death,” “South of Heaven,” and “Dead Skin Mask.”
10. What was the critical reception to “Raining Blood”?
“Raining Blood” was widely praised by critics upon its release. The song is often cited as one of Slayer’s most iconic tracks and is considered a landmark in the thrash metal genre.
11. What was the inspiration behind the song’s opening riff?
The song’s opening riff was inspired by a piece of music Slayer’s guitarist, Jeff Hanneman, had been working on. He intended to use the music as the theme song for a horror movie.
12. What is the meaning behind the final lyrics of “Raining Blood”?
The final lyrics of “Raining Blood” describe a world where there is no hope for escape or redemption. The lines “Why don’t you die? Your blood’s running cold Send shivers down your spine As you’re begging for mercy” paint a picture of a world filled with despair.
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