
Introduction
Oh
Table of Contents
Verse 1
Who’s your leader? Who’s your man?
Who will help you fill your hand?
Who’s your friend and who’s your foe?
Who’s your Judas? You don’t know
Chorus
Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long, long knife
Verse 2
Oh, where’s that savior? Where’s that light
When you’re praying for your life?
Who’s that fighting back to back?
Who’s defending whose attack?
Chorus
Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long, long knife
Night of the long knife
Oh, stab him in the back once
Guitar Solo
Chorus
It’s the night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Outro
It’s the night
Of the long, long knife
Yeah
Oh, yeah
Oh
It’s night of the, night of the
Night of the long, long knife
Album title: For Those About to Rock (1981)
The Meaning Behind the Song
This is a straightforward song about betrayal. Hence the references to Judas and the night of the long knives. AC/DC, known for their raw and powerful rock music, delivers a powerful message about trust and loyalty in this track.
The song raises questions about who one can truly rely on in challenging times. Through the lines “Who’s your leader? Who’s your man?” and “Who’s that fighting back to back? Who’s defending whose attack?”, AC/DC challenges listeners to evaluate their relationships and determine if they have true allies or hidden enemies.
The reference to Judas, known for famously betraying Jesus, adds a layer of biblical symbolism to the song. Just as Judas turned against someone he once considered a friend, the lyrics imply that betrayal can come from unexpected sources.
The title “Night of the Long Knives” further emphasizes the theme of betrayal. The night of the long knives refers to a historical event that occurred in Germany in 1934, where Adolf Hitler ordered the purge of his own paramilitary organization, the SA, to consolidate his power. This act of betrayal and violence mirrors the themes explored in the song.
Overall, “Night of the Long Knives” serves as a cautionary reminder to be cautious of those around us and to choose our allies wisely.
Personal Experience
As a longtime AC/DC fan, I have always found “Night of the Long Knives” to be a captivating and thought-provoking song. Its intense energy and powerful lyrics make it a standout track in their repertoire.
The lyrics resonate with me personally as I have experienced moments of betrayal in my own life. Like the song suggests, it is disheartening to discover that someone you believed to be a friend or ally could turn against you. This song serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and to trust our instincts when it comes to the people we surround ourselves with.
Listening to “Night of the Long Knives” often serves as a cathartic release, allowing me to channel my emotions and reflect on my own experiences with betrayal. AC/DC’s ability to capture these complex emotions in their music is truly remarkable and adds an extra layer of depth to their songs.
Credits
Produced By Robert John Lange
Written By Brian Johnson, Malcolm Young & Angus Young
Release Date November 23, 1981
Tags
Rock
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