The band previously went under the name "Kingpi… Read Full Bio ↴First Era, 1985-1991
The band previously went under the name "Kingpin" while they played in Sweden, recording the album "Welcome To Bop City" the line-up featured Zinny J. Zan (vocals), Tim Skold going by "Tim Tim" (bass), Harry Cody (guitar) and Stixx Galore (drums). This would become the original line-up of Shotgun Messiah as the band changed their name and relocated to Los Angeles, California hungry for more success. The album they released under the Kingpin name was re-recorded and released as Shotgun Messiah's self-titled, debut album, Shotgun Messiah. The style of this album was Glam metal typical of early 1980s American bands, in the vein of Mötley Crüe and Ratt.
Second Era, 1991-1993
Soon after this, frontman Zinny J. Zan departed, leaving Tim Skold to take over vocal duties for the band, Shotgun Messiah drafted in American bassist, Bobby Lycan to fill Tim's former position. This would prove to be the bands most successful era. In 1991, the bands follow up album "Second Coming" was released, spawning their most famous hit "Heartbreak Blvd". Stylistically, due to Skold's less conventional singing style, this era saw the band playing Sleaze Glam styled Hard rock, closer to Guns N' Roses and Faster Pussycat than their previous effort.
A punk rock influence was prevalent during this period. The band released an E.P. "I Want More", featuring cover versions of songs by the Ramones, the Stooges and the New York Dolls, during this time, they were also known to cover the Sex Pistols live.
Third Era, 1993
1993 proved to be the final year for the band, Harry Cody and Tim Skold were left as the only members of Shotgun Messiah, and created what would be the last Shotgun Messiah album "Violent New Breed", this album is significantly different from the previous efforts as it focused heavily on Industrial rock stylings, bringing in live players for the Violent New Breed tour. Soon after the band split permanently, citing artistic differences as the reason.Skold would have a stint in KMFDM.
Zan and Stixx (going only by his first name) reunited in 2012 as Shotgun. They wanted to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Welcome to Bop City, the original debut album from the band's first incarnation as Kingpin before changing their name to Shotgun Messiah. They released a live album under the Shotgun moniker. Their line-up at this point included Zan (lead vocals), Rob Marcello (guitar and backing vocals), Chris Laney (bass and backing vocals), Stixx (drums and backing vocals), and Jonas Beijer (keyboards).
I Wanna Know
Shotgun Messiah Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I wanna know why you hide behind
the shadows of the way you were used to be
the ruins of a theory, an old idea
there's gotta be a better way
it's time to say a different prayer
well, if you ask me I will tell you that it's time now, baby
give me your hand, I promise love will take us home
there is a road and we will know it when we see it, maybe
it is the way to take us back where we belong
don't fear, love will make us strong
I wanna know how you keep it up
I wanna know, know, know, know when you've had enough
you say that we've been here before, can't you see
we never learn from history, obviously
there's gotta be a better way
it's time to say a different prayer
c'mon, c'mon, let's go now
well, if you ask me I will tell you that it's time now, baby
give me your hand, I promise love will take us home
there is a road and we will know it when we see it, maybe
it is the way to take us back where we belong
don't fear, love will make us strong
inside it's just begun
don't wanna see it, yet it opens up your mind
shine as bright as the midday sun
(solo)
there's gotta be a better way
it's time to say a different prayer
c'mon, c'mon, let's go now
c'mon, c'mon, let's go now
well, if you ask me I will tell you that it's time now, baby
give me your hand, I promise love will take us home
there is a road and we will know it when we see it, maybe
it is the way to take us back where we belong
don't fear, love will make us...
don't fear, love will make us strong
strong
love will make us strong
love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love will make us
love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love will make us strong
love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love will make us strong
love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love l-love will make us strong
my soul to keep
The lyrics to Shotgun Messiah's song "I Wanna Know" depict a desire for deeper understanding and connection in a relationship. The singer is asking their partner to open up and share their true emotions, rather than hiding behind a facade of who they used to be. The line "I wanna know how you keep it up, when you've had enough" suggests that the singer is aware of their partner's struggle, and wants to provide support and comfort. However, the second verse suggests that they've been down this road before and history is repeating itself, highlighting the importance of finding a new approach to their problems.
Despite these challenges, the singer is optimistic about their relationship's potential for growth and healing. They suggest that there's a better way forward and encourage their partner to take a risk and try something new. The line "give me your hand, I promise love will take us home" is particularly poignant, as it speaks to the power of love to guide and protect us through difficult times. In the end, the singer emphasizes that love will make them strong, and that together they can overcome anything.
Line by Line Meaning
I wanna know what you feel inside
I want to understand your innermost thoughts and emotions.
I wanna know why you hide behind the shadows of the way you were used to be
I want to understand why you continue to behave in a certain way, even though it may not be the best for you.
the ruins of a theory, an old idea
The remnants of a belief or concept that may no longer be relevant or helpful.
there's gotta be a better way
There must be a more effective or positive course of action.
it's time to say a different prayer
It's time to try a new approach or way of thinking.
c'mon, c'mon, let's go now
Let's take action and move forward.
give me your hand, I promise love will take us home
I will support and guide you with love and care to a place where we feel safe and secure.
there is a road and we will know it when we see it, maybe
There is a path to follow, and we will recognize it when the time comes, possibly.
don't fear, love will make us strong
Have no fear, because love will give us strength and help us overcome challenges.
inside it's just begun
A new journey or phase has just started within us.
shine as bright as the midday sun
Radiate positivity, energy, and confidence as if shining like the sun at its peak.
love will make us strong
Love is a powerful force that can strengthen us emotionally and mentally.
my soul to keep
A phrase often used at the end of a prayer or promise, meaning to give all of oneself, body and soul, to a higher power or cause.
Contributed by Thomas C. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
BestBuyMusicGear
We absolutely love Shotgun Messiah
ShadyRay
Tim Skold is freaking awesome!!!!!
E of the G
GREAT album!! Guitar tone is monstrous
Matt Brada
Harry Cody was clearly capable of rhythm chops to differentiate himself, this song was proof. His leads only accentuate his distinction.
tony ybarra jr
Great band got the disc when it first came out
1986 Kevrolet
Their first album was pure generic crap! Poison meets Motley Crue. This album has big production and great guitars. But production over substance does nothing and the lyrics are crap. There are no great songs on this album. Just good ones. I can think of a 1000 bands from the late 80`s I would rather listen to than this one!