“Rock of Ages” by Def Leppard isn’t just a song; it’s an anthem. Released in 1983 on their groundbreaking album Pyromania, these Def Leppard Rock Of Ages Lyrics have become synonymous with the band and a staple of rock radio worldwide. The song’s infectious energy and powerful chorus have cemented its place as one of the greatest rock anthems of all time. But beyond the catchy tune, what do the lyrics actually mean and why do they resonate so deeply with audiences? Let’s dive into the heart of “Rock of Ages” and explore the lyrical genius behind this iconic track.
The song explodes with the now-legendary gibberish intro, “Gunter glieben glauchen globen,” a phrase that, while nonsensical, perfectly sets the stage for the high-octane rock and roll that follows. This playful opening immediately grabs your attention before launching into the verses:
Gunter glieben glauchen globen
All right I got something to say
Yeah, it’s better to burn out
Yeah, than fade away
All right
Ow gonna start a fire
C’mon!
Rise up! Gather ’round
Rock this place to the ground
Burn it up let’s go for broke
Watch the night go up in smokeRock on! Rock on!
Drive me crazier, no serenade
No fire brigade, Just the pyromania, come onWhat do you want? What do you want?
I want rock’n’roll, yes I do
Long live rock’n’rollOh let’s go, let’s strike a light
We’re gonna blow like dynamite
I don’t care if it takes all night
Gonna set this town alightC’mon!
What do you want? What do you want?
I want rock’n’roll, all right!
Long live rock’n’rollRock of ages, rock of ages
Still rollin’, keep a-rollin’
Rock of ages, rock of ages
Still rollin’, rock’n’rollin’We got the power, got the glory
Just say you need it and if you need it
Say yeah!Heh heh heh heh
Now listen to me
I’m burnin’, burnin’, I got the fever
I know for sure, there ain’t no cure
So feel it, don’t fight it, go with the flow
And gimme, gimme, gimme, gimme one more for the roadWhat do you want? What do you want?
I want rock’n’roll, you betcha
Long live rock’n’roll
Now hit itRock of ages, rock of ages
Still rollin’, keep a-rollin’
Rock of ages, rock of ages
Still rollin’, rock’n’rollin’We got the power, got the glory
Just say you need it and if you need it
Say yeah!
Say yeah!We’re gonna burn this damn place down
Down to the groundHeh heh heh heh heh heh heh heh heh heh heh heh
The lyrics themselves are a celebration of rock and roll energy and attitude. Phrases like “better to burn out than fade away” (a nod to Neil Young, though often misattributed solely to Kurt Cobain) encapsulate the rebellious spirit and the desire to live life intensely. The call to “rise up! Gather ’round / Rock this place to the ground” is an invitation to collective energy and shared experience that is central to the rock concert atmosphere.
The recurring question, “What do you want? What do you want?” is met with a resounding answer: “I want rock’n’roll!” This is a declaration of passion and a commitment to the genre. The chorus, with the iconic “Rock of Ages” refrain, reinforces the timeless nature of rock music. “Rock of Ages” becomes a metaphor for the enduring power and legacy of rock and roll itself, something that is “still rollin’, keep a-rollin’.”
The bridge, “I’m burnin’, burnin’, I got the fever / I know for sure, there ain’t no cure,” speaks to the addictive and all-consuming nature of rock and roll. It’s not just music; it’s a feeling, a fever that you don’t want to be cured from. The demand for “one more for the road” further emphasizes the insatiable appetite for rock and roll and the desire to keep the energy going.
In conclusion, “Rock of Ages” lyrics are simple yet powerful, capturing the essence of rock and roll as a force of energy, rebellion, and enduring spirit. They are an invitation to join in the celebration of rock music and experience its timeless appeal. When you hear “def leppard rock of ages lyrics,” you’re not just hearing words; you’re hearing a call to rock, a call to energy, and a call to the enduring power of music.
