Rooster

Song meaning of Rooster by Alice in Chains

Alice in Chains' "Rooster" is a standout track in the pantheon of grunge anthems, not just because of its gut-wrenching vocals and haunting melody, but also because of its intimate, emotional connection to the Vietnam War. "Rooster" is a potent story that explores the atrocities of war, the resiliency of the human spirit, and the personal experience of guitarist and vocalist Jerry Cantrell. It was released as part of the band's highly regarded 1992 album, Dirt.

"Rooster" was written by Jerry Cantrell as a remembrance of his father, Jerry Cantrell Sr., an infantryman in the US Army during the Vietnam War. Cantrell Sr. was dubbed "Rooster," the name of the song, in part due to his arrogant demeanour and large physique, and in part because his last name suggested a bird (Cantrell sounds like "cantaloupe," which led to "chicken," then "Rooster"). Because of this intimate connection, the song has an authenticity and depth of feeling that appeals to listeners, many of whom have witnessed the effects of war alter loved ones.

Lyrics of Rooster by Alice in Chains

Ain't found a way to kill me yet

Eyes burn with stinging sweat

Seems every path leads me to nowhere

Wife and kids household pet

Army green was no safe bet

The bullets scream to me from somewhere

Here they come to snuff the rooster

Yeah here come the rooster, yeah

You know he ain't gonna die

No, no, no, ya know he ain't gonna die

Here they come to snuff the rooster

Yeah here come the rooster, yeah

You know he ain't gonna die

No, no, no, ya know he ain't gonna die

Walkin' tall machine gun man

They spit on me in my home land

Gloria sent me pictures of my boy

Got my pills 'gainst mosquito death

My buddy's breathin' his dyin' breath

Oh God please won't you help me make it through

Here they come to snuff the rooster

Yeah here come the rooster, yeah

You know he ain't gonna die

No, no, no ya know he ain't gonna die