
As one of the most notorious and controversial rock bands of the 1980s, Guns N’ Roses penned many memorable songs that carved out a place in the hearts of metalheads worldwide. Their hit song, “Rocket Queen,” though less well-known than some of their other tracks, has an interesting backstory that goes beyond its catchy guitar riffs and soaring chorus. In this article, we’ll dive into the meaning behind the song “Rocket Queen” by Guns N’ Roses.
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The Inception of “Rocket Queen”
Before we can explore the meaning behind “Rocket Queen,” it’s important to understand how the song came to be. According to lead guitarist Slash, the song originated from a riff that he had been playing for a while, but that he wasn’t able to turn into a complete song until he heard singer Axl Rose come up with the lyrics. Known for his unpredictable but powerful voice, Rose provided the perfect complement to Slash’s electric guitar, and the two began to work together to flesh out the piece. In a 1991 interview with Guitar World, Slash recalled:
“I played this riff and Axl just started singing this melody over it. We quickly got our sh*t together, and the tune just sort of took on a life of its own. We didn’t even have a name for it, so we just called it ‘Rocket Queen’ because the chorus sounded like something you’d hear in a sci-fi movie.”
The song was eventually recorded for Guns N’ Roses’ debut album, “Appetite for Destruction” and released on July 21, 1987.
The Lyrics of “Rocket Queen”
At first glance, the lyrics of “Rocket Queen” seem to be a straightforward love song, with Rose crooning about his desire for a mysterious woman who he can never quite seem to capture. However, a closer look at the lyrics reveals a more complex and even disturbing story.
In the first verse, Rose sings, “If you need a shoulder or if you need a friend, I’ll be here standing till the bitter end. No one needs the sorrow, no one needs the pain, I hate to see you walking out there out in the rain.” This section of the song seems to be sincere, with Rose offering himself as a support system for the titular Rocket Queen. However, things take a darker turn in the following verse, where Rose sings, “I’ve been here before, I’ve seen this room and I’ve walked this floor. You know, I used to live alone before I knew ya.”
Many fans have interpreted this verse to mean that Rose is trying to seduce the Rocket Queen by playing on her vulnerability and isolation. He’s using his familiarity with her space as a way to gain her trust, and then proceeds to sing about his own desire for her. The lines “I can’t get enough, I can’t get enough” suggest that Rose is consumed by his lust for the Rocket Queen and will stop at nothing to have her.
The chorus of the song is where the sci-fi element that inspired its name comes in, with Rose singing, “I’m a Rocket Queen, I’ll give you suckin’ machine. I’m a Rocket Queen, I’ll fuel your jet stream and take you to the stars.” Some have suggested that this is meant to be taken literally, with Rose portraying himself as an otherworldly force that can transport the Rocket Queen to new levels of pleasure. Others have argued that the line is metaphorical, with the “suckin’ machine” and “jet stream” representing Rose’s sexual prowess and ability to satisfy his partner.
The final verse is perhaps the most disturbing, with Rose singing, “I see you standing, standing on your own. It’s such a lonely place for you, for you to be if you need a ride. I’m gonna be, I’m gonna be your chauffeur.” This section suggests that Rose is not content to leave the Rocket Queen alone, but rather intends to become her sole companion and caretaker. The term “chauffeur” implies that he will be driving her around and taking her wherever she wants to go, but it could also have more sinister connotations, like kidnapping or controlling her movements.
The Controversy Surrounding “Rocket Queen”
Given the suggestive and sometimes dark lyrics of “Rocket Queen,” it’s no surprise that the song has caused controversy since its release. Some have criticized the lyrics for being predatory and objectifying towards women, while others have defended the song as a celebration of sexual freedom and desire.
In an interview with Rolling Stone in 1991, Rose addressed some of the controversy surrounding “Rocket Queen,” saying:
“I think it’s […] a completely sexist song. We’re never denying the existence of sex and its place in making babies or whatever. But that’s something that people should have within themselves, they should not necessarily project it in this way. It’s like buying a Harley-Davidson is only good for your psyche until it gets stolen. It’s like, great, that strung-out drug addict that stole it, you know, what kind of use is he gonna get out of the Harley?”
However, other members of the band, like Slash and bassist Duff McKagan, have defended the song as being tongue-in-cheek and not meant to be taken literally. In an interview with VH1 in 2008, Slash said, “The ‘Rocket Queen’ thing is one of those things that’s kind of tongue-in-cheek. It’s not supposed to be this serious rapery song or anything. It’s just one of those moments in rock ‘n’ roll that just kind of kicks ass.”
The Legacy of “Rocket Queen”
Despite the controversy surrounding it, “Rocket Queen” remains a beloved song among Guns N’ Roses fans, many of whom see it as a testament to the band’s rebellious and unapologetic spirit. The song has been covered by other artists, like Big Daddy and Sketchy Bongo, and has even inspired a line of clothing by the fashion brand Zara.
In 2016, Guns N’ Roses reunited their classic lineup for a series of concerts, including a headlining spot at the Coachella music festival. During their set, the band played “Rocket Queen,” much to the delight of their fans, who sang along to every word. The fact that the song still holds sway over audiences more than 30 years after its release is a testament to its enduring appeal.
In conclusion, “Rocket Queen” may be a controversial and sometimes troubling song, but it also represents a unique and unforgettable moment in rock ‘n’ roll history. With its soaring vocals, electrifying guitar riffs, and provocative lyrics, it has earned its place in the pantheon of great rock songs, and will continue to inspire and provoke listeners for generations to come.
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