Alice Cooper, born Vincent Furnier, celebrates his 77th birthday today. To honor this milestone, let’s delve into the stories behind ten of his most iconic songs that have left an indelible mark on rock history.
1. “I’m Eighteen” (‘Love It to Death’, 1971)
This track became one of Alice Cooper’s early hits, capturing the confusion and rebellion of adolescence. Released initially as a single in November 1970, it reflects the angst of an 18-year-old facing the challenges of adulthood. Its raw guitar riffs and raspy vocals influenced bands like Kiss, Anthrax, and the Ramones.
2. “School’s Out” (‘School’s Out’, 1972)
An anthem for generations, “School’s Out” encapsulates the exhilaration of the end of the school year. The song’s rebellious spirit and catchy chorus propelled it to the top of the charts, making it a timeless classic.
3. “No More Mr. Nice Guy” (‘Billion Dollar Babies’, 1973)
This song narrates the backlash Cooper faced from society and the media due to his controversial stage persona. It tells the story of a man embracing his bad reputation after being misunderstood.
4. “Poison” (‘Trash’, 1989)
Marking a successful comeback, “Poison” became one of Cooper’s biggest hits. The song explores the theme of dangerous love, with its seductive melody and hard-rock edge resonating with fans worldwide.
5. “Welcome to My Nightmare” (‘Welcome to My Nightmare’, 1975)
Serving as the title track for his first solo album, this song introduces listeners to a theatrical and eerie journey through a nightmare, showcasing Cooper’s flair for blending rock with storytelling.
6. “Feed My Frankenstein” (‘Hey Stoopid’, 1991)
Known for its appearance in the movie “Wayne’s World,” this track combines humor with horror themes, embodying Cooper’s signature shock rock style.
7. “Under My Wheels” (‘Killer’, 1971)
A high-energy rock song, it tells the tale of a man eager to meet his lover but hindered by obstacles, using car metaphors to convey his frustration.
8. “Billion Dollar Babies” (‘Billion Dollar Babies’, 1973)
This track critiques the excesses of fame and the music industry, with Cooper reflecting on the absurdity of his own success.
9. “Only Women Bleed” (‘Welcome to My Nightmare’, 1975)
A departure from his typical hard rock sound, this ballad addresses the issue of domestic violence, showcasing Cooper’s versatility and depth as a songwriter.
10. “He’s Back (The Man Behind the Mask)” (‘Constrictor’, 1986)
Featured in the “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives” soundtrack, this song blends synth-pop elements with horror themes, reflecting Cooper’s adaptability to the evolving music scene of the 1980s.
Throughout his extensive career, Alice Cooper has continually reinvented himself, blending theatricality with rock music to captivate audiences. His influence on the genre is undeniable, and as he celebrates his 77th birthday, his legacy remains as vibrant as ever.
