D.O.A. has always maintained an uncompromising leftist political stance. The band is known for its outspoken political opinions and has a history of performing for many causes and benefits. Its slogan is "Talk minus Action equals Zero." The band has been active on many issues, including anti-racism, anti-globalization, freedom of speech, and the environment.
Death Machine
D.O.A. Lyrics
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The lyrics to D.O.A.'s song "Death Machine" are a powerful commentary on the impact that human industry and greed have on the world around us. The opening lines describe the destruction that is wrought on the natural environment - it is cut, slashed, and ripped apart, and then polluted with deadly chemicals. The chorus reinforces the sense of hopelessness in the face of such destruction - the singer is dying because of the machine, but they don't give a damn. They are on the frontline, with no retreat.
The second verse takes on the issues of economic inequality and exploitation. The billion-dollar profits from environmental destruction and resource looting are tied to a larger debt, and "third world rape" - presumably referring to the exploitation of resources and labour from countries in the Global South - is the result. The final lines are the most poignant: the singer walks through the valley of death, which has been created by the very machine that they are referring to in the song. It tears out their heart.
Overall, the lyrics to "Death Machine" are a powerful call to action against the greed and destruction that have taken over so much of our society. The song paints a bleak picture of a world that has been ravaged by human activity, but there is still a sense of defiance in the face of this destruction.
Line by Line Meaning
they cut it, slash it, rip it apart.
The destruction of nature and resources is done recklessly.
dump deadly crap, that's just the start.
The pollution caused by these actions is just the beginning.
damn the rivers, damn the valleys, damn the burnin' rays.
The environment is cursed and neglected in every possible way.
damn the bloody atmosphere, can't breath it anyway.
The air is polluted and unfit for breathing.
death machine - now i'm dyin.
All the destruction caused by greedy corporations is leading to the death of both people and the planet.
death machine - don't give a damn.
The corporations responsible for the destruction don't care about the consequences of their actions.
death machine - on the frontline.
Those most affected by the destruction are the ones on the frontline, facing the consequences.
death machine - got no retreat.
There is nowhere to go to escape the effects of the destruction caused by these corporations.
a billion dollar profit, a bigger debt.
The corporations responsible make huge profits, but at a cost that is much greater than the money gained.
with third world rape, that's what you get.
The exploitation of resources from underdeveloped countries leads to their destruction and further exploitation.
as i walk through the valley of death and i see what, what is left.
The destruction caused by the corporations is so extensive that it is comparable to a valley of death.
it rips me, rips me apart.
The destruction of the environment and the disregard for the consequences is emotionally devastating.
death machine tears out my heart.
The ongoing destruction and pollution caused by these corporations is heartbreaking.
Contributed by Kayla E. Suggest a correction in the comments below.