No Good (Attack The Radical)

Pantera's 'No Good (Attack The Radical)' is a powerful commentary on the persistent issue of racial prejudice in society. The song opens with a stark acknowledgment of the ongoing racial tensions in the United States, attributing them to an 'ignorant past' that has fueled ongoing conflicts. The lyrics suggest that despite humanity's progress in various fields, we have failed to overcome the primitive instinct to discriminate based on race. The singer's frustration is palpable as he declares his refusal to be defensive about his opinions, urging listeners to confront the reality of racial inequality head-on.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the cyclical nature of racial hatred, describing it as a 'hated mass' that persists because society continues to live in the past. The lyrics 'Race, pride, prejudice / Black man, white man, no stand' highlight the futility of racial pride and prejudice, suggesting that these attitudes only serve to perpetuate division and conflict. The song calls for a revolution of the mind, urging people to break free from the 'mind pollution' that sustains racial hatred.

In the latter part of the song, Pantera addresses the destructive consequences of racial prejudice, including violence and social unrest. The imagery of 'white hoods and militants' evokes the historical and ongoing presence of extremist groups that thrive on racial hatred. The song paints a bleak picture of a world where individuals are isolated by their prejudices, living in 'private graves' of their own making. The repeated refrain 'No good! For no one!' serves as a stark reminder that racial prejudice ultimately harms everyone, regardless of their background. Through its raw and unflinching lyrics, 'No Good (Attack The Radical)' challenges listeners to confront and dismantle the deep-seated prejudices that continue to divide society.