Riot
SOA Lyrics
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There's no choice, they've turned on you
Destroy the city, smash it all to bits
They won't stop, they don't give a shit
[Chorus:]
Sticks and stones- Riot
Break your bones- Riot
You're the Blame- Riot
You're gonna die, you and your friends
You made it start, they made it end
[Chorus:]
The lyrics of Soa's song "Riot" describe a violent and chaotic situation on the street. The singer describes a war happening and the sense of helplessness that comes with it. He suggests that those involved in the violence have no choice, as they have been pushed to their limits and are now turning on each other. The lyrics are urging listeners to participate in the destruction of the city, which the singer is clearly against. The singer is disappointed by the lack of empathy people have for each other, as they continue to destroy everything with no consideration for the consequences.
In the chorus, the lyrics express the idea that the rioters will hurt anyone they come into contact with; sticks and stones will break bones, stores will be set on fire, and anyone involved in the riot will be blamed. The singer then warns that those involved in the riots will ultimately suffer the consequences, being killed along with their friends, having begun the riot.
This song is a commentary on the destructive consequences of groupthink, as people can be pushed to do things they might not normally do on their own when operating within a group. It also reflects the feeling of hopelessness and frustration that can arise when one feels they are powerless in a particular situation.
Line by Line Meaning
There's a war on the street, watcha gonna do
It is evident that there is a conflict happening on the streets, and the question is, how will you respond or act?
There's no choice, they've turned on you
The situation has escalated to a point of no return, and you are now the target of their aggression.
Destroy the city, smash it all to bits
The intensity of the situation is to such an extent that the only way to fight back is to cause destruction and chaos.
They won't stop, they don't give a shit
The opposing side is relentless and careless about the consequences of their actions.
Sticks and stones- Riot
The method of attack is brutal and primitive, where rioters use any tool they could find to cause harm.
Break your bones- Riot
The rioters will not hesitate to use physical violence that could seriously harm or kill others.
Stores in Flames- Riot
One of the consequences of riots is the destruction of commercial property, often through arson or looting.
You're the Blame- Riot
The blame is put on the listener as if they caused the situation, making them responsible for any damages and harm caused.
You're gonna die, you and your friends
The underlying threat of death is very real, and the listener and their companions are in imminent danger.
You made it start, they made it end
Whether knowingly or not, the listener is responsible for the conflict's beginning, but the opposing side will ultimately end it through their violent response.
Contributed by Leah B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.