About the song
“Another One Bites the Dust” is a landmark song by the legendary British rock band Queen. Released in 1980 as part of their eighth studio album, The Game, it became an instant global phenomenon. The song’s infectious rhythm and Freddie Mercury’s powerful vocals propelled it to the top of the charts worldwide, holding the coveted number one spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks.
“Another One Bites the Dust” stands out not only for its commercial success but also for its innovative sound. Bassist John Deacon, the song’s mastermind, crafted a driving bass line inspired by the disco group Chic. This, combined with Queen’s signature rock elements and layered production techniques, resulted in a unique blend of genres that captivated audiences. Interestingly, the song features no synthesizers – all the effects were achieved using guitars, piano, and drums, manipulated through tape manipulation and harmonizers.
The song’s title, with its idiom “to bite the dust,” carries a dual meaning. It can refer to physical death or defeat in a competition. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of this duality, with the opening verse setting a tense atmosphere akin to a gangster movie and later verses hinting at a failed relationship. However, the song’s overall tone is one of resilience. The repeated line “Another one bites the dust” acknowledges challenges but refuses to be daunted by them. The singer declares his independence with the line “standing on my own two feet,” showcasing the song’s underlying message of perseverance.
“Another One Bites the Dust” transcended the boundaries of rock music. It received critical acclaim for its “snarling” energy and catchy hook. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its countless covers, remixes, and appearances in movies, television shows, and commercials. It even almost made it into the iconic film Rocky III, before being ultimately replaced by another anthem of determination, “Eye of the Tiger.”
This song solidified Queen’s status as a global force in music. Its innovative sound, powerful vocals, and timeless themes continue to resonate with listeners today, making “Another One Bites the Dust” a true rock classic.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s go!
Steve walks warily down the street
With the brim pulled way down low
Ain’t no sound but the sound of his feet
Machine guns ready to go
Are you ready? Hey
Are you ready for this?
Are you hanging on the edge of your seat?
Out of the doorway the bullets rip
To the sound of the beat, yeah
Another one bites the dust
Another one bites the dust
And another one gone, and another one gone
Another one bites the dust (yeah)
Hey, I’m gonna get you too
Another one bites the dust
How do you think I’m going to get along
Without you, when you’re gone?
You took me for everything that I had
And kicked me out on my own
Are you happy, are you satisfied?
How long can you stand the heat?
Out of the doorway the bullets rip
To the sound of the beat, look out
Another one bites the dust
Another one bites the dust
And another one gone, and another one gone
Another one bites the dust
Hey, I’m gonna get you too
Another one bites the dust
Hey!
Oh, take it
Bite the dust
Bite the dust, hey
Hey
Another one bites the dust
Another one bites the dust, ow!
Another one bites the dust, hey, hey
Another one bites the dust, hey
Ooh, shout!
There are plenty of ways that you can hurt a man
And bring him to the ground
You can beat him, you can cheat him, you can treat him bad
And leave him when he’s down, yeah
But I’m ready, yes I’m ready for you
I’m standing on my own two feet
Out of the doorway the bullets rip
Repeating to the sound of the beat, oh yeah
Another one bites the dust
Another one bites the dust
And another one gone, and another one gone
Another one bites the dust, yeah
Hey, I’m gonna get you too
Another one bites the dust
Shoot out
Ay-yeah
Alright