John Anthony White, known as Jack White, is an influential American musician and the lead singer of the rock duo The White Stripes.
“Seven Nation Army” won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song in 2004 and has since become a global anthem, widely recognized for its distinctive repeated tune.
About the Song
“Seven Nation Army” is a song by American rock duo the White Stripes. It is the opening track on their fourth studio album, Elephant (2003).
This is a powerful anthem about resilience, defiance, and overcoming obstacles.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 17 Feb 2003 |
| Album | Elephant |
| Writers | Jack White |
| Producers | Jack White |
Seven Nation Army Lyrics by The White Stripes
Verse 1
I’m gonna fight ’em off
A seven-nation army couldn’t hold me back
They’re gonna rip it off
Takin’ their time right behind my back
And I’m talkin’ to myself at night because I can’t forget
Back and forth through my mind, behind a cigarette
Pre-Chorus
And the message comin’ from my eyes says, “Leave it alone”
Instrumental Chorus
Verse 2
Don’t wanna hear about it
Every single one’s got a story to tell
Everyone knows about it
From the Queen of England to the Hounds of Hell
And if I catch it comin’ back my way, I’m gonna serve it to you
And that ain’t what you want to hear, but that’s what I’ll do
Pre-Chorus
And the feelin’ comin’ from my bones says, “Find a home”
Instrumental Chorus
Verse 3
I’m goin’ to Wichita
Far from this opera forevermore
I’m gonna work the straw
Make the sweat drip out of every pore
And I’m bleedin’ and I’m bleedin’ and I’m bleedin’ right before the Lord
All the words are gonna bleed from me and I will think no more
Pre-Chorus
And the stains comin’ from my blood tell me, “Go back home.”
Instrumental Chorus
Live Performances of Seven Nation Army Song
1. The White Stripes – Seven Nation Army (Live at Bonnaroo 2007)
2. Jack White Seven Nation Army Live at (Glastonbury 2022)
Similar Songs Like Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes
Here are songs by The White Stripes that share similar themes, musical elements, or emotional tones with “Seven Nation Army.”
- Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground: This song mixes strong guitar sounds with honest words about losing someone and feeling sad.
- Ball and Biscuit: A long blues song that shows off big guitar solos and deep lyrics about love and finding yourself.
- Icky Thump: This fast-paced song combines rock music with folk and punk styles. It has strong beats and words.
- The Hardest Button to Button: The song has a simple but strong tune that sticks in your head, with a steady bass beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Inspired Jack White to Write “Seven Nation Army”?
White wrote the song after hearing crowds sing simple soccer chants. He wanted to create something people could easily remember and sing together.
How did “Seven Nation Army” Become a Global Sports Anthem?
Belgian soccer fans started singing the main tune at games in 2003. Sports teams worldwide picked it up, making it a popular chant.
Why Does the “Seven Nation Army” Guitar Riff Sound Like a Bass Guitar?
White used a guitar pedal that lowered his guitar’s sound by an octave, creating the famous deep tune without using a bass.
What is the Meaning Behind the Lyrics of “Seven Nation Army”?
The song talks about fighting back against gossip and rumors in White’s hometown of Detroit.
How did “Seven Nation Army” Impact The White Stripes’ Career?
The song became their biggest hit and won a Grammy. It helped make them famous worldwide.
What are Some Notable Covers or Uses of “Seven Nation Army” in Popular Culture?
The song appears in movies, TV shows, and video games. Many artists have covered it, and sports teams use it regularly.
