Songs About Murder
From mournful ballads to visceral anthems, the list of songs about murder offers a diverse array of musical genres and storytelling styles, united by their exploration of the ultimate crime. These songs delve deep into the motives, consequences, and psychological depths of homicide, inviting listeners to confront the raw and unsettling truths of mortality and morality.
Aerosmith – Janie’s Got A Gun
The first track of songs about murder is here. Released on Aerosmith’s album “Pump” in 1989, “Janie’s Got A Gun” is a powerful rock anthem that tackles the sensitive subject of sexual abuse and its aftermath.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of Janie, a young girl who seeks revenge against her abusive father.
Simon & Garfunkel – He Was My Brother
“He Was My Brother” is a poignant folk-rock song by Simon & Garfunkel, featured on their debut album “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.” released in 1964. The song pays tribute to civil rights activist Andrew Goodman, who was murdered along with two other activists during the Freedom Summer of 1964.
Through heartfelt lyrics and gentle harmonies, Simon & Garfunkel mourn the loss of their friend and honor his commitment to social justice. The theme revolves around friendship, sacrifice, and the quest for equality, serving as a poignant reminder of the human cost of the struggle for civil rights.
Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody
Another track of songs about murder is here. “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a groundbreaking rock opera by Queen, released on their album “A Night at the Opera” in 1975. The song defies conventional structure, seamlessly blending elements of rock, opera, and balladry into a six-minute epic. Its enigmatic lyrics and operatic vocal harmonies have sparked endless debate and interpretation among listeners.
The theme of “Bohemian Rhapsody” is open to interpretation, with some seeing it as a reflection on the existential journey of life and death, while others view it as a commentary on the power of music and artistic expression.
Johnny Cash – The Long Black Veil
Another popular example of songs about murder is here. Featured on Johnny Cash’s album “Orange Blossom Special” released in 1965, “The Long Black Veil” is a haunting ballad that tells the story of a man wrongly accused of murder. The song’s protagonist refuses to provide an alibi because he was having an affair with his best friend’s wife at the time of the crime.
The lyrics evoke a sense of mystery and tragedy, with lines like “She walks these hills in a long black veil / She visits my grave when the night winds wail.” The theme revolves around love, betrayal, and the consequences of keeping secrets, set against the backdrop of a mournful melody.
Seven Mary Three – Water’s Edge
“Water’s Edge” is a grunge-influenced rock song by Seven Mary Three, featured on their album “American Standard” released in 1995. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a troubled individual standing at the water’s edge, contemplating life’s uncertainties and searching for meaning.
With lines like “Caught my reflection / Screaming back at me,” the song captures the protagonist’s inner turmoil and sense of alienation.
Loreena McKennitt – The Highwayman
The next song about murder came from Loreena McKennit. Loreena McKennitt’s haunting rendition of “The Highwayman” from her 1997 album “The Book of Secrets” is a captivating journey through the mystique of folk storytelling.
Drawing inspiration from Alfred Noyes’ classic poem, McKennitt weaves a tapestry of Celtic melodies and ethereal vocals that transport listeners to a bygone era..
The Chicks – Goodbye Earl
With “Goodbye Earl” from their 1999 album “Fly,” The Chicks (formerly known as Dixie Chicks) deliver a bold and unforgettable anthem that deftly tackles themes of female empowerment and justice served with a twist of dark humor. The song tells the story of two lifelong friends, Mary Anne and Wanda, who take matters into their own hands when Mary Anne’s abusive husband Earl resurfaces in her life.
Set against a backdrop of twangy guitars and infectious country rhythms, the narrative unfolds with a mixture of defiance and determination as the duo concocts a plan to rid themselves of Earl once and for all.
The Beatles – Maxwell’s Silver Hammer
Here is the greatest classical example of songs about murder came from The Beatles. In “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer” from The Beatles’ 1969 album “Abbey Road,” the band showcases their signature wit and irreverence in a darkly humorous tale of a mischievous character named Maxwell Edison.
With its catchy melody and playful arrangement, the song belies its macabre subject matter—a series of murders committed by Maxwell using his silver hammer. As the narrative unfolds, listeners are drawn into the absurdity of Maxwell’s actions juxtaposed against the lighthearted musical backdrop.
The Toadies – Possum Kingdom
“Possum Kingdom” by The Toadies from their 1994 album “Rubberneck” is a gripping alt-rock anthem that exudes an eerie and enigmatic allure. Set against a backdrop of brooding guitars and driving rhythms, the song unfolds as a dark and seductive invitation from an enigmatic figure lurking by the shores of Possum Kingdom Lake.
Ella Fitzgerald – Miss Otis Regrets (She’s Unable To Lunch Today)
The last track of songs about murder is here. Ella Fitzgerald’s rendition of “Miss Otis Regrets (She’s Unable To Lunch Today)” from her 1956 album “Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Cole Porter Song Book” is a masterclass in storytelling through song.
Originally penned by Cole Porter, the song tells the tragic tale of Miss Otis, a society woman who finds herself caught in a scandalous affair.