Title: Born to Be Wild

Artist: Steppenwolf

Release Date: 1968

Album: Steppenwolf (self-titled debut album)

Writer: Mars Bonfire

Genre: Rock, Hard Rock

Chart Performance:

• “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1968.
• The song is considered a quintessential anthem of the 1960s counterculture and the emerging hard rock genre.

Musical Style:

• “Born to Be Wild” is characterized by its powerful and rebellious hard rock sound.
• The song features roaring guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and gritty vocals, capturing the spirit of the emerging rock culture.

Songwriting and Composition:

• Written by Mars Bonfire, “Born to Be Wild” is an anthem that celebrates the freedom and rebellious spirit associated with the open road and the counterculture movement.
• The lyrics famously include the phrase “heavy metal thunder,” which is often credited with popularizing the term “heavy metal” to describe a genre of music.

Cultural Impact:

• “Born to Be Wild” is often associated with the 1960s counterculture and the rise of the “biker” subculture.
• The song gained additional prominence through its inclusion in the soundtrack of the iconic film “Easy Rider” (1969), further solidifying its status as a rock classic.

Usage in Media:

• “Born to Be Wild” has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials.
• Its rebellious and high-energy nature has made it a go-to choice for soundtracks that aim to convey a sense of freedom and independence.

Legacy:

• “Born to Be Wild” remains one of the defining songs of the hard rock genre and a symbol of the counterculture movement.
• The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its continued use in popular culture, as well as its inclusion in various “greatest rock songs” lists.

In summary, “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf is a classic hard rock anthem that captures the rebellious and adventurous spirit of the 1960s. Its impact on popular culture, association with the counterculture movement, and memorable musical elements have secured its place as a timeless and influential rock song.