Feel the Thrill of the Open Road with Steppenwolf’s “Born To Be Wild”

Background

“Born To Be Wild” is a rock and roll anthem released in 1968 by the Canadian-American rock band Steppenwolf. It appeared on their self-titled debut album, becoming their most recognizable song and propelling them to stardom. Though not the first single released by the band, “Born To Be Wild” quickly became a cultural phenomenon, perfectly capturing the rebellious spirit of the late 1960s.

The song’s origins lie with songwriter Mars Bonfire (born Dennis Edmonton). Initially, Bonfire offered the song to other bands, including The Human Expression. However, it wasn’t until Steppenwolf got their hands on it that the track truly came alive. They rearranged and sped up the tempo, transforming it into a “roaring anthem of turbo-charged riff rock” as described by AllMusic’s Hal Horowitz. This new version became synonymous with Steppenwolf’s sound and a timeless representation of 1960s counterculture.

Musical Style

“Born To Be Wild” is a prime example of hard rock and garage rock, genres that emerged in the mid-1960s. It’s characterized by a driving, distorted guitar riff played by John Kay and bass player Rushton Moreve. The rhythm section lays down a powerful foundation, propelling the song forward with a relentless energy. Over this, Kay’s vocals snarl with a raw, rebellious attitude, perfectly embodying the song’s message.

The song’s structure is simple yet effective. It opens with the iconic guitar riff, instantly grabbing the listener’s attention. This riff remains the backbone of the song, repeated throughout with variations. The verses are short and to the point, driven by Kay’s forceful vocals. The chorus is a powerful declaration of freedom, featuring the now-famous line “Born to be wild!” A brief guitar solo explodes in the middle of the song, showcasing the band’s technical prowess and adding another layer of excitement. The song then returns to the main riff and concludes with a final, emphatic shout of “wild!”

Lyrics

The lyrics of “Born To Be Wild” are as straightforward as the music. They paint a picture of a restless spirit, yearning for freedom and escape from societal constraints. The opening line, “Heavy metal thunder / rattlin’ bones,” sets the scene for a wild ride. The protagonist is depicted as someone who doesn’t conform, who finds joy in the open road and the thrill of the unknown. Lines like “Gotta get out / gotta get away” and “I like it loud / I like it fast” capture this desire for liberation.

The motorcycle imagery is prominent throughout the song. Lines like “Get your motor runnin'” and “hold on tight to what’s comin'” create a sense of adventure and rebellion associated with biker culture. Though not explicitly mentioned, the motorcycle becomes a symbol of freedom and individuality, resonating with a generation yearning to break free from the establishment.

Cultural Impact

“Born To Be Wild” transcended the music charts to become a cultural touchstone. Its rebellious spirit resonated deeply with the youth of the late 1960s, a generation questioning societal norms and authority. The song became an anthem for the counterculture movement, capturing the desire for freedom, self-expression, and living life on one’s own terms.

The song’s influence extended beyond music. It was prominently featured in the 1969 counterculture film “Easy Rider,” forever linking it with the image of motorcycles and open highways. This association cemented its place in popular culture and ensured its continued relevance for generations to come. “Born To Be Wild” continues to be featured in movies, television shows, and video games, a testament to its enduring power.

Conclusion

“Born To Be Wild” is more than just a rock song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. It perfectly captured the rebellious spirit of a generation and continues to resonate with audiences today. The song’s simple yet powerful music, combined with its straightforward lyrics, creates a timeless anthem for freedom and individuality. “Born To Be Wild” is a reminder to live life on your own terms, to chase your dreams, and to never give up on your desire for freedom.