The Meaning Behind The Song: Frankenstein by Edgar Winter
It’s impossible to talk about classic rock music without mentioning the iconic song “Frankenstein” by Edgar Winter, released in 1972. The track has become synonymous with the era, and its soaring guitar riffs and frenetic keyboard melodies have made it a favorite among music enthusiasts around the world.
While the song’s title may conjure up images of the classic horror novel by Mary Shelley, the true meaning behind “Frankenstein” is a bit more nuanced. In this article, we’ll delve into the lyrics and instrumentation of the song to uncover what it was really about.
The Origins of “Frankenstein”
First, let’s take a look at how “Frankenstein” came to be. According to Edgar Winter, the song’s inspiration came from an improvised jam session with his bandmate Ronnie Montrose. While playing together in the studio, they began to experiment with various sounds and melodies, eventually settling on the guitar riff that would become the backbone of “Frankenstein.”
From there, Winter added his signature keyboard sound to the mix, with the resulting combination becoming an instant classic. The song was quickly embraced by fans, and has since become a staple of classic rock radio stations.
The Lyrics of “Frankenstein”
So, what do the lyrics of “Frankenstein” actually mean? The song is entirely instrumental, with no vocals or lyrics to be found. That being said, the title itself does give us a clue as to what the song is about.
As previously mentioned, the title “Frankenstein” likely references the classic horror novel by Mary Shelley. However, rather than exploring themes of fear, horror, or the supernatural, Winter’s “Frankenstein” is instead an exploration of the power of music.
The Message Behind “Frankenstein”
At its core, “Frankenstein” is a celebration of the creativity and spontaneity that can be found within the musical process. The track’s combination of guitar and keyboard melodies showcases the interplay between musicians, highlighting the give-and-take that occurs during a jam session.
Moreover, the song demonstrates the power of musical expression to move listeners emotionally. From the hard-driving opening riff to the more tender, introspective moments in the middle section, “Frankenstein” takes the listener on a journey through dynamic shifts and moods.
Ultimately, the message behind “Frankenstein” is one of artistic freedom and creativity, encouraging musicians to express themselves in whatever way feels right to them. The song has served as an inspiration to countless musicians over the years, and its influence can still be heard in contemporary music today.
A Cultural Touchstone
Beyond its musical significance, “Frankenstein” has also become a cultural touchstone in its own right. The song has appeared in numerous films and television shows over the years, including The Drew Carey Show, The Simpsons, and Wayne’s World 2.
Perhaps most notably, “Frankenstein” was used as the opening music for Wide World of Sports, one of the most popular television programs of the 1970s and 80s. Its recognizable riff has become synonymous with the show and sports coverage in general, cementing its place in popular culture.
The Legacy of “Frankenstein”
As one of the most enduring classics of the rock genre, “Frankenstein” has left an indelible mark on music history. Its soaring guitar riffs and frenzied keyboard melodies continue to captivate audiences, and its message of artistic freedom and expression remain as important today as they were nearly 50 years ago.
As Edgar Winter himself puts it, “To me, ‘Frankenstein’ represents an ongoing celebration of the spirit of rock and roll. It’s about the spontaneous creativity that can happen when you let your creativity run wild.”
So the next time you hear those familiar opening notes, take a moment to appreciate the majesty and power of “Frankenstein,” and the musical legacy it represents.
