Keith Morris was their original lead singer. He left the band suddenly in 1979 to form the well-known band, Circle Jerks. Ron Reyes was the second singer for the band, but decided to leave the band not too long after. Dez Cadena would be their next singer, but switched to second guitar when they found fourth and final singer Henry Rollins in Washington D.C. in 1981.
While Black Flag were - and remain - very respected among their underground culture, their music has not been the stylistic model one might expect, in spite of their formidable reputation. Rather, their influence was seen primarily in their tireless promotion of a self-controlled DIY aesthetic. They're often regarded as pioneers in the movement of underground do-it-yourself record labels that flourished among the 1980s' punk rock bands.
Over the course of the 1980s, Black Flag's sound, as well as their notoriety, evolved in ways that alienated much of their early punk audience. They were part of the first wave of American West Coast punk rock, are considered a key influence on Punk culture band, and are especially important in the creation of hardcore punk. Their later sound, however, was often reminiscent of proto-heavy metal bands such as Black Sabbath.
The band broke up in August 1986, when Greg Ginn decided to quit.
Through seemingly-constant touring throughout the USA and Canada, and occasionally Europe, Black Flag established an extremely dedicated fan base. Many other musicians would follow Black Flag's lead and book their own tours, utilizing a word-of-mouth, grass-roots network.
On January 25, 2013, it was announced that guitarist Greg Ginn and vocalist Ron Reyes would reform Black Flag, joined by Gregory Moore on drums, and 'Dale Nixon' on bass (Dale Nixon is a pseudonym sometimes used by Ginn, most prominently as the bassist on My War). The band will tour as well as release a new album, their first since 1985's In My Head. In March of that year, it was announced that Screeching Weasel bassist Dave Klein joined the band. On May 2, 2013, the band released a new song entitled "Down in the Dirt" through their website.
Around the same time, it was announced that the lineup that played at GV 30, Morris, Dukowski, Stevenson and Egerton, would tour performing Black Flag songs, under the name FLAG. It was later announced that the lineup would be joined by Dez Cadena.
Forever Time
Black Flag Lyrics
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The lyrics to "Forever Time" are introspective and haunting. The song seems to be about time and how fleeting it is. The repetition of "time" throughout the song underscores this theme. The singer seems to be preparing for something, possibly their own death or end of a relationship, and is urging the listener to appreciate the time they have left. The line "It's time to walk by me one last time" suggests a finality, while "It's time to look into my eyes one last time" could be interpreted as a plea for connection and understanding.
The second verse is particularly poignant, as the singer describes themselves as a "death machine" made up of skin, muscles, and a heart that only pumps blood for a limited time. They seem to be grappling with their own mortality and reflecting on the limited time they have left. The final lines of the song - "This is the first time / This is the last time / It's my only time / But it's only time" - further emphasize the idea that life is finite and every moment we have is precious.
Overall, "Forever Time" is a powerful meditation on time, mortality, and the importance of living in the present. It is a poignant reminder to cherish the moments we have and make the most of the time we are given.
Line by Line Meaning
Time Time Time Forever time
Time is eternal and it is always moving forward.
It's time to walk by me One last time, it's time
It is time for someone to leave and they will never return.
At first Relax Get set Get your message from time
Take a moment to breathe, prepare yourself for what time has to offer, and listen to what it is trying to tell you.
Time, time, time, time
Time is constantly present and perpetually moving forward.
It's time to look into my eyes One last time, it's time
The time has come to connect with another person on a deep level before parting ways forever.
I feel I'm some kind of death machine With skin and muscles and a heart That pumps my blood
The singer feels as though they are a machine designed for death despite their human body and emotions.
Time, time, time, time
Time keeps moving forward without pause or interruption.
It's time to kiss me goodbye One last time, it's time
It is time for the final farewell and last physical connection before separation.
This is the first time This is the last time It's my only time But it's only time
Life is a temporary and finite experience that should be cherished and appreciated every moment, despite its impermanence.
Time Time Time Forever time
Time is a force beyond any individual's control, and it continues to exist forever.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: GREGORY REGIS GINN, HENRY LAWRENCE GARFIELD
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind