Shinedown, 'Bully,' Carries Empowering Rock - Song Review

Shinedown, ‘Bully,’ Carries Empowering Rock – Song Review

2012-01-17

Review by Anne Erickson

Shinedown’s new song, ‘Bully,’ carries a powerful message

Shinedown’s latest single, “Bully,” is an empowering rock anthem that’s purpose-made for anyone who has ever felt like the underdog. Few bands embrace the union of soulful vocals and heavy guitars as well as Shinedown, who coil up their guitar lines with powerful riffing, punctuate melodies with catchy fills and delver inspiring lyrics that make you want to take on the world, and that’s more than apparent in “Bully.”

“Bully” begins with chunky, muted guitars, making way for lead singer Brent Smith’s powerful entry. The lyrics tell the story of the oppressed and unaccepted: “It’s 8 AM, this Hell I’m in / Seems I’ve crossed the line again / For being nothing more than who I am.” But, there’s a silver lining in this story, as Smith soon croons an empowering plea: “So break my bones and throw your stones / We all know that life ain’t fair / But there is more of us, we’re everywhere!”

Thick guitars and pounding rhythms encase Smith’s voice, and then the chorus kicks in with a triumphant message: “We don’t have to take this, back against the wall / We don’t have to take this, we can end it all / All you’ll ever be is a fading memory of a bully / Make another joke while they hang another rope, so lonely … No one’s gonna cry on the very day you die / You’re a bully!” Guitarist Zach Myers’ passionate playing adds to the song’s intensity during the bridge, where he solos with strength and precision.

Buoyed by Rob Cavallo’s expert production, “Bully” pushes Shinedown into the big leagues, showing they can still write a rough and tough rock anthem amid their hugely popular mainstream fare. It gives fans a taste of what’s ahead on their new album, “Amaryllis,” out March 27 in the U.S. If you’re looking a reason why Shinedown are one of the biggest rock bands in the world, you’ll certainly find it in “Bully.”

Anne Erickson

Meet the expert - Author, writer and editor Anne Erickson is a Detroit-based reporter and radio host. She has written for the USA Today Network, Consequence.net, Blabbermouth.net, and many more. Anne holds a master's degree from Michigan State University. Contact Anne at anne@audioinkradio.com.

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