We Built This City / We re Not Gonna Take It

The song "We Built This City / We're Not Gonna Take It" by Rock Of Ages is a powerful anthem that combines themes of defiance and pride in the legacy of rock and roll. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of frustration with corporate control and commercialization, which is seen as a threat to the authenticity and spirit of rock music. The repeated line, "We built this city on rock and roll," serves as a proud declaration of the genre's foundational role in shaping culture and society. It emphasizes the idea that rock and roll is not just music but a movement that has built communities and influenced generations.

The song also incorporates the rebellious spirit of Twisted Sister's classic, "We're Not Gonna Take It," which adds an extra layer of resistance and determination. This part of the song is a rallying cry against conformity and oppression, expressing a refusal to be silenced or controlled. The lyrics, "We ain't gonna take it anymore," resonate with anyone who has felt marginalized or dismissed, reinforcing the idea that rock and roll is a voice for the voiceless and a means of standing up against injustice.

Cultural references to corporate games and the changing names of corporations highlight the transient and often exploitative nature of the business world, contrasting sharply with the enduring and genuine spirit of rock music. The imagery of someone stealing the stage and writing off the artists as irresponsible underscores the struggle for creative freedom and recognition. The song ultimately serves as both a tribute to the enduring power of rock and roll and a call to action to resist and reclaim the true essence of the genre from commercial exploitation.