The Meaning Behind The Song: Barracuda by Heart
Heart’s “Barracuda” is a legendary song that has stood the test of time. It remains an anthem and favorite in the classic rock genre. The track, released in 1977, was inspired by a series of events that happened to the band, specifically sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson.
What led to the creation of Barracuda?
The song came to be as a response to a feud between Heart and their record label, Mushroom Records. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Ann Wilson revealed, “Mushroom was up for sale and everybodys job was hanging on Prince Charming, the next release. We were pretty insecure about our future.”
Expectations were high for the band and Mushroom Records was placing undue pressure on them to succeed. Mushroom Records had been spreading a rumor around that Ann and Nancy were in a lesbian relationship. The rumor was started after Ann struck up a friendship with a woman that worked at the recording studio. The woman, who played guitar, would often give Ann lessons and advice. The other staff at the studio took notice and began talking about the two women.
What does the title mean?
The song was titled after a guitar Nancy spotted at a local store, a guitar that happened to be shaped like a barracuda fish. The guitar was sleek and sported sharp edges, characteristics that the Wilson sisters felt embodied the sound of the song.
What is the song about?
“Barracuda” is a track that is often misunderstood due to the strong and powerful lyrics. It is not about a fish or a physical entity but a warning to their enemies. The opening lyrics set the tone:
So this ain’t the end, I saw you again,
today
I had to turn my heart away
Smiled like the sun, kisses for everyone
And tales, it never fails!
The “you” in the song is Mushroom Records and the “I had to turn my heart away” line refers to the band’s need to distance themselves from the label. The lines “smiled like the sun, kisses for everyone” are about the label’s false facade. They were always happy and friendly, but behind closed doors, they were harming the band.
Ann Wilson described the song as a “spiteful rant against those who try to manipulate, especially for sex, for business, for excitement.”
What was the impact of the song?
“Barracuda” became a massive hit and still resonates with music lovers today. It spent 20 weeks on the US Billboard Hot 100 charts and was one of the best-performing tracks of 1977. “Barracuda” remains a staple of classic rock radio rotation, making it one of the most enduring and memorable songs of the era.
The song’s success and popularity have even transcended the music industry. The National Football League (NFL) team, the Miami Dolphins, has adopted “Barracuda” as its theme song. It is played during home games and is often referred to as the team’s “unofficial” anthem.
The impact of “Barracuda” on Ann and Nancy Wilson’s legacy
Heart was initially written off by music critics, which is why “Barracuda” and its success were so monumental. The song catapulted the band into the spotlight and paved the way for future success.
Ann and Nancy Wilson have become icons of the rock genre, and their music has influenced countless musicians over the years. Ann Wilson’s powerful vocals and Nancy Wilson’s guitar skills have garnered them praise and recognition in the industry.
It’s not just their music, the Wilson sisters have always been outspoken about their beliefs and have advocated for the advancement of women in music. They have served as mentors to younger artists and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
The legacy of Barracuda
“Barracuda” has had a lasting impact on the music industry and fans alike. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Fergie, Alice in Chains, and Foo Fighters. Its message of standing up against adversity and being true to oneself has been significant in inspiring others to do the same.
“Barracuda” remains a timeless classic that will continue to resonate with music lovers for generations to come. The Wilson sisters’ creativity and tenacity in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration and a reminder to other artists that it’s okay to speak up and go against the grain.
In the words of Nancy Wilson, “Barracuda” is “just that little phrase that says so much and it’s not a storybook, it’s just that moment where all the stars kind of aligned.”
