Barracuda

Heart's 'Barracuda' is a song that combines hard rock energy with the metaphorical use of a predatory fish to convey a message of betrayal and resilience. The lyrics, penned by lead singer Ann Wilson and guitarist Roger Fisher, were inspired by an incident involving the band and their record label. The song reflects the band's frustration with the music industry, particularly the sleazy aspects of it, and the personal attacks they faced as female musicians in a male-dominated field.

The opening lines set the stage for a confrontation, with the narrator encountering someone who has wronged them. The use of the word 'barracuda' as a metaphor suggests a deceitful person who hides in the 'weeds' waiting to strike. The song's chorus, with its repeated questioning 'Now wouldn't you, barracuda?', emphasizes the predatory nature of the person in question. The reference to 'smiling like the Sun' and 'kisses for everyone' indicates a facade of warmth and generosity that hides true intentions.

The second verse introduces the 'porpoise,' which could symbolize innocence or a fellow victim of the music industry's machinations. The line 'No right, no wrong, you're selling a song' criticizes the commodification of art and the willingness to compromise integrity for commercial success. The repeated lines about burning 'it to the wick' suggest that the deceitful actions will ultimately lead to self-destruction. Overall, 'Barracuda' is a defiant anthem against exploitation and a declaration of the band's determination to overcome the challenges they faced.