Don't Need a Gun

Billy Idol

About Don't Need a Gun

"Don't Need a Gun" is a song by Billy Idol from his 1986 studio album Whiplash Smile. It became the album's second single.


Year:
1986
6:18
110 
#1

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A human heart goes out tonight 
Yes a red hot love on a red stop light 

I see a scene so cold it echoes in blue 
Oh those twisting tongues they are after you 

Wop bop a lu bop Son you gotta move up 
Flip flop fly 
Lawdy Miss Clawdy 
Oh what a story dreams to buy 
Don't need a knife to violate my life 
It's all so insane 

When the other man has none 
You don't need a gun 
Yes a Russian roulette no fun 
I don't need a gun 
I just need someone 
I don't need a gun 

Blood red lights a domination street yeah 
Just need your love and I feel that heat yeah 
You can drive me through 
That red stop light 
With a whiplash smile 

Wop bop a lu bop Son you gotta move up 
Flip flop fly 
Lawdy Miss Clawdy 
Oh what a story dreams to buy 
Don't need a knife to violate my life 
It's all so insane 

When the other man has none 
You don't need a gun 
Yes a Russian roulette no fun 
You don't need a gun I just need someone 
I won't need a gun oh yeah 

You will always be crying yeah 
Oh you will always be dying 
Oh you will always be dying 

Elvis a fight the dying light 
Johnny Ray he's always crying 
Gene Vincent he cried who slapped John, John, John 

Yes and me, I'm movin', movin', movin', movin' on. 
Yeah to be someone 
I don't need a gun

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Billy Idol

William Michael Albert Broad (born 30 November 1955), better known by his stage name Billy Idol, is an English rock musician. A member of the Bromley Contingent of Sex Pistols fans, Idol first achieved fame in the punk rock era as a member of the band Generation X. He then embarked on a successful solo career, and was a member of the MTV-driven "Second British Invasion" of the United States. A series of music videos for songs such as "White Wedding", "Rebel Yell" and "Eyes Without a Face" made him one of the first MTV stars. Idol continues to tour with guitarist Steve Stevens. more »

5 fans

Written by: Billy Idol

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Album Release
"Don't Need a Gun" is a song by Billy Idol, which was featured on his third studio album, "Whiplash Smile", released in 1986.
Chart Performance
The song became a hit, reaching #37 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States in 1987. It also topped the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
Message of the Song
Unlike what the title might suggest, the song "Don't Need a Gun" isn't actually about firearms. It's about the various ways people can be 'armed' – such as with wealth, knowledge, or sex appeal.
Songwriter
The song was written by Billy Idol himself, showcasing his talent not only as a vocalist but also as a songwriting artist.
Synth-Pop and Rock Fusion
"Don't Need a Gun" is a unique blend of synth-pop and rock genres, a trademark of Billy Idol's music that made him a notable figure in the 1980s music scene.
Music Video
"Don't Need a Gun" was accompanied by a music video, which received significant airplay on MTV. The video featured Idol's signature sneer and spiky, bleached-blond hair.
Influence
Billy Idol and his song "Don't Need a Gun" have been influential in the rock genre. He was among the first to mix punk's simplicity and energy with a pop and rock sound in a successful way.
Collaborations
Billy Idol frequently collaborated with guitarist Steve Stevens for most of his songs, including "Don't Need a Gun". The duo's partnership significantly contributed to Idol's musical style and success.
Critic Reviews
"Don't Need a Gun" received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its catchy beats and Idol's punk rock appeal, others criticized it for lacking depth.
Award Nomination
Following the release of the song, Billy Idol was nominated for a grammy award for "Best Male Rock Vocal Performance" in 1987.

Discuss the Don't Need a Gun Lyrics with the community:

1 Comment
  • John F. Kennedy
    John F. Kennedy
    Great song !!!!
    LikeReply6 years ago

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Don't Need a Gun

5.1M
18,785     699

Top Hot 100 Songs 1987

Billboard #37


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