About the song
Gene Vincent’s “Race with the Devil” is a timeless rockabilly anthem that catapults listeners into a whirlwind of raw energy and unadulterated rebellion. Released in 1956, this electrifying track remains an emblem of the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll, showcasing Vincent’s distinctive vocal prowess and the pulsating rhythm of his band, The Blue Caps.
From the moment the needle hits the vinyl, “Race with the Devil” wastes no time in setting the tone for a wild ride. The opening guitar riff, sharp and urgent, instantly grabs your attention, signaling the impending sonic onslaught. Vincent’s vocals enter the fray with a fervor that is both captivating and menacing, his gravelly timbre dripping with attitude and defiance.
Lyrically, the song delves into themes of rebellion and danger, painting a vivid picture of a thrilling, albeit perilous, escapade. The imagery evoked is that of a high-speed chase under the cover of darkness, with the devil himself in hot pursuit. Vincent’s delivery is imbued with a sense of urgency, as if urging the listener to join him on this adrenaline-fueled journey.
The instrumentation is equally dynamic, with the relentless drumbeat driving the rhythm forward like the pounding of a racing heart. The guitars snarl and wail, echoing the protagonist’s defiance in the face of danger. There’s a sense of chaos and recklessness in every riff and every chord progression, mirroring the exhilarating rush of defying authority and embracing the thrill of the unknown.
What sets “Race with the Devil” apart is its sheer intensity and authenticity. Gene Vincent’s primal scream reverberates through the decades, reminding us of the unbridled passion and rebellious spirit that defined the early days of rock ‘n’ roll. It’s a song that captures the essence of youth rebellion and the timeless allure of the open road, inviting listeners to throw caution to the wind and join the race with the devil.
Video
Lyrics
Well I’ve led an evil life, so they say But I’ll hide from the devil on judgement day, I said Move, hot-rod, move man Move, hot-rod, move man Move hot-rod, move me on down the the line, oh yeahWell me and the devil, at a stop light He started rollin’, I was out of sight, I said Move, hot-rod, move man Move, hot-rod, move man Move hot-rod, move me on down the the line, oh yeahWell, goin’ pretty fast, looked behind A-hear come the the devil doin’ ninety-nine, I said Move, hot-rod, move man Move, hot-rod, move man Move hot-rod, move me on down the the line, oh yeahWell thought I was smart, the race was won A-hear come the devil doin’ a-hundred and one Move, hot-rod, move man Move, hot-rod, move man Move hot-rod, move me on down the the lineWell, goin’ pretty fast, looked behind A-hear come the the devil doin’ ninety-nine, I said Move, hot-rod, move man Move, hot-rod, move man Move hot-rod, move me on down the the line, oh yeah!Well I’ve led an evil life, so they say But I’ll hide from the devil on judgement day, I said Move, hot-rod, move man Move, hot-rod, move man Move hot-rod, move me on down the the line