Rock Of Ages

Def Leppard's 'Rock Of Ages' is an anthem that celebrates the enduring spirit and rebellious energy of rock and roll. The song opens with a nonsensical chant, 'Günter glieben glauchen globen,' which sets a playful and irreverent tone. This introduction leads into a declaration that emphasizes the importance of living passionately: 'it's better to burn out than fade away.' This line, famously quoted by Kurt Cobain in his suicide note, is originally attributed to Neil Young and encapsulates the rock ethos of living intensely, even if it leads to an early end, rather than slowly losing vitality over time.

The chorus, 'Rock of ages, rock of ages / Still rollin', keep a-rollin',' serves as a rallying cry, suggesting that rock music is a timeless force that continues to move and inspire people. The song's title itself, 'Rock Of Ages,' implies a monolithic, enduring quality to rock music, likening it to an ancient, unshakeable force. The lyrics 'We got the power, got the glory / Just say you need it and if you need it / Say yeah' invite listeners to acknowledge and embrace the power of rock music in their lives.

Throughout the song, there is a sense of communal celebration and a call to action, urging listeners to 'rise up, gather 'round' and participate in the revelry. The repeated requests for rock and roll ('What do you want? / I want rock'n'roll') and the affirmation 'Long live rock'n'roll' reinforce the idea that rock music is not just a genre but a way of life that is defiant, liberating, and eternal. Def Leppard, known for their hard rock and glam metal style, encapsulates this spirit in 'Rock Of Ages,' making it an enduring anthem for rock enthusiasts.