Thunderstruck is the iconic opening track from AC/DC's 1990 album, The Razors Edge. It's electrifying anthem rock with a pulse-pounding riff and Brian Johnson's signature raspy vocals. The song became a staple of classic rock radio and a cornerstone of AC/DC's live performances.
[Intro]
Thunder, ah
Thunder, ah
Thunder, ah
Thunder, ah
Thunder, ah
Thunder, ah
Thunder, ah
Thunder, ah
Thunder, ah
Thunder, ah
Explanation of Intro
The song opens with a repeated chant of "Thunder," instantly setting the mood. It's a powerful declaration, promising an electrifying experience.
[Verse 1]
I was caught in the middle of a railroad track (Thunder)
I looked 'round and I knew there was no turning back (Thunder)
My mind raced and I thought, what could I do? (Thunder)
And I knew there was no help, no help from you (Thunder)
Sound of the drums beating in my heart
The thunder of guns tore me apart
Explanation of Verse 1
The first verse throws us into a dangerous situation. The narrator is stuck on railroad tracks, facing an unstoppable force. The constant repetition of "thunder" reinforces the image of relentless power.
[Refrain]
You've been - thunderstruck
Explanation of Refrain
The simple yet powerful refrain, "You've been thunderstruck," crystallizes the song's core theme. It describes the experience of being hit by a mighty, almost supernatural force.
[Verse 2]
Went down the highway, broke the limit, we hit the town
Went through to Texas, Yeah, Texas, and we had some fun
We met some girls, some dancers who gave a good time
Broke all the rules, played all the fools
Yeah-yeah, they, they, they blew our minds
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Explanation of Verse 2
The second verse takes a sharp turn, shifting to a wild road trip and a night of raucous partying. But even here, the lyrics hint that the revelers were "thunderstruck" by the intensity of the night, their minds blown by the experience.
[Pre-Chorus]
I was shaking at the knees
Could I come again please?
Yeah, the ladies were too kind
Explanation of Pre-Chorus
Despite the potential danger, the narrator yearns for another "thunderstruck" moment. This pre-chorus highlights the allure and intoxicating power of the central theme.
[Chorus]
You've been - thunderstruck, thunderstruck
Yeah-yeah-yeah, thunderstruck
Oh, thunderstruck
Yeah
Explanation of Chorus
The chorus explodes with the repeated chant of "Thunderstruck," driving home the theme and unleashing a surge of raw energy and excitement. It's the song's climax.
[Bridge 1]
I was shaking at the knees
Could I come again please?
Yow
Explanation of Bridge 1
The first bridge echoes the narrator's desire for another "thunderstruck" encounter, further solidifying the song's focus.
[Instrumental Break]
Explanation of Instrumental Break
This section lets the music shine. A scorching guitar solo showcases the band's technical prowess and adds another layer of intensity.
[Guitar Solo]
Explanation of Guitar Solo
Angus shreds in "Thunderstruck's" solo. Blazing riffs and soaring melodies showcase his skill. It's a high-octane display that builds intensity, letting the music take the lead and amplify the song's power.
[Chorus]
Thunderstruck, thunderstruck
Yeah-yeah-yeah, thunderstruck
Thunderstruck, yeah, yeah, yeah
Said
Explanation of Chorus
The chorus explodes with the repeated chant of "Thunderstruck," driving home the theme and unleashing a surge of raw energy and excitement. It's the song's climax.
[Bridge 2]
Yeah, it's alright
We're doing fine
Yeah, it's alright
We're doing fine, so fine
Explanation of Bridge 2
The second bridge suggests a change. The narrator and his companions seem to have found comfort in the "thunderstruck" experience. They're "doing fine" now, able to handle the intensity of these encounters.
[Chorus]
Thunderstruck, yeah-yeah-yeah
Thunderstruck, thunderstruck, thunderstruck
Whoa, baby, baby (Thunderstruck)
You've been thunderstruck, thunderstruck
Thunderstruck, thunderstruck
You've been thunderstruck
Explanation of Chorus
The final chorus brings the song to a powerful close. The relentless chant of "Thunderstruck" reiterates the central theme, leaving a lasting impression of raw power and exhilarating experience.
OVERALL
AC/DC's "Thunderstruck" is a high-energy rock anthem that electrifies listeners with its pounding rhythm and Brian Johnson's signature vocals. The song opens with a powerful image of being caught on a train track, then explodes into a celebration of wild adventures, exhilarating experiences, and the overwhelming feeling of being "thunderstruck," whether by love, excitement, or pure rock and roll power.
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