Index finger and pinky extended, middle and ring fingers tucked down by the thumb – this is the globally recognized “Rock On Hand Sign.” Ubiquitous at concerts, sporting events, and even in everyday life, this gesture has become synonymous with enthusiasm, rebellion, and of course, rock and roll. But where did this sign originate? Is it truly a symbol of devil worship, as some might believe, or does its history lie in more surprising and nuanced origins?
Ronnie James Dio: The Popularizer of the Horns
While the sign’s roots are debated, it’s undeniable that Ronnie James Dio, the legendary heavy metal vocalist, cemented the “rock on hand sign” into popular culture. Taking over vocal duties for Black Sabbath in 1979 after Ozzy Osbourne’s departure, Dio needed a stage presence that resonated with fans. Osbourne was known for his peace signs, and Dio sought a unique symbol that wasn’t derivative.
Dio, in numerous interviews, credited his Italian grandmother for the gesture. He explained it wasn’t intended as a satanic symbol but as a way to ward off the “Evil Eye,” a superstition deeply rooted in Italian culture. Dio clarified to Metal-rules.com in 2001, “It’s not the devil’s sign like we’re here with the devil. … It’s to ward off the Evil Eye or to give the Evil Eye, depending on which way you do it.” Essentially, for Dio, the hand horns were akin to “knocking on wood” – a protective charm. While he didn’t invent the sign, Dio’s consistent use of it on stage throughout his career with Black Sabbath, Dio, and Heaven & Hell, indelibly linked it with heavy metal and rock music.
Ronnie James Dio performing on stage, making the rock on hand sign.
Precursors and Earlier Sightings
Interestingly, the “rock on hand sign” predates Dio’s popularization. Looking back into music history reveals earlier instances of the gesture, hinting at a more complex lineage.
John Lennon’s Submarine Salute
The Beatles, known for their innovative album art, featured John Lennon making a very similar hand gesture on the cover of their 1966 single “Yellow Submarine”/”Eleanor Rigby.” In this instance, Lennon’s thumb is extended, and the back of his hand faces outwards. Later, in the 1969 “Yellow Submarine” album, a cartoon depiction of Lennon clearly displays the “rock on hand sign” as we know it today – thumb tucked in, palm facing out.
Ronnie James Dio performing on stage, making the rock on hand sign.
The meaning behind Lennon’s gesture remains open to interpretation. Speculation often points towards Aleister Crowley, a controversial occultist from the early 20th century who fascinated some within the rock music scene. Crowley sometimes referred to himself as Baphomet, a horned, goat-like deity. In this context, Lennon’s sign could be interpreted as a subtle nod to this occult figure, representing the horned head of a goat or ram. Adding to this theory, Crowley himself appears on the cover of The Beatles’ iconic 1967 album “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.”
Coven: Occult Undertones in Early Rock
Further tracing the sign’s early appearances leads to the band Coven. This psychedelic rock band, known for their occult themes, released their debut album “Witchcraft Destroys Minds and Reaps Souls” in 1969. The back cover of this album features two band members explicitly making the “rock on hand sign.” Intriguingly, the first track on Side A of the album is titled “Black Sabbath,” the very band Dio would later front. Coven’s album was steeped in occult imagery and even included a 13-minute track titled “Satanic Mass,” which they performed live on stage. While Coven’s bassist was named Oz Osborne (note the single “s”), and not Ozzy Osbourne (double “s”), the coincidences and thematic overlaps are noteworthy in the context of the “rock on hand sign” and its potential associations.
From Rock Concerts to Mainstream Culture
Regardless of its precise origins, the “rock on hand sign” has transcended its initial association with rock and heavy metal music. Over the decades, it has morphed into a mainstream gesture embraced by diverse groups. Pop stars like Britney Spears have been seen flashing the sign, and it’s become a common expression of enthusiasm or approval in various contexts, from sports games to celebratory moments.
Ronnie James Dio performing on stage, making the rock on hand sign.
The sign’s meaning has broadened to encompass general excitement, approval, and a sense of “good times.” While some might still associate it with “devil horns,” for most, it’s simply a powerful and visually striking way to say “Rock on!”, “Hell yeah!”, or to express energetic agreement.
Embracing the Symbol: Fun and Fervor
Ultimately, the “rock on hand sign” is a fascinating example of how a gesture can evolve and take on different meanings over time. From potential roots in warding off the Evil Eye to possible connections with occult symbolism, and finally to its widespread adoption as a symbol of rock music and general enthusiasm, the sign’s journey is rich and multifaceted. Today, when you see someone throw up the “horns,” it’s more likely an expression of shared excitement and positive energy than a salute to the underworld. So, embrace the sign, rock on, and enjoy the good times it represents!
Sources: Metalrules.com, Allmusic.com, BBC.co.uk, Ultimate-guitar.com, WSJ.com’s Speakeasy blog.
