Black Flag is a band that you’ve probably heard of if you enjoy punk rock. Since the group’s founding in the late 1970s, they have been a major presence in the field, and new artists are constantly being inspired by their work.
It can be difficult to select just a few of the most memorable songs when there are so many to choose from. To help you blast through the din and rediscover the pure power of punk music, we’ve put together a list of the Top 10 Black Flag Songs.
These tracks, which range from “Depression” to “Drinking and Driving,” showcase the finest of Black Flag and are sure to make you sweat. So pump up the volume and let’s explore the Black Flag universe.
1. Depression
One of Black Flag’s most powerful and sad tracks is “Depression.” This tune, which Black Flag included on their 1981 album “Damaged,” exemplifies the band’s unbridled fire and power that helped them become one of the most important punk rock acts ever.
For any fan of the genre, “Depression” is a must-listen due to its eerie guitar riffs and stirring lyrics. This song is likely to lift your spirits whether you’re feeling depressed or just need a burst of unrestrained punk rock energy. So turn it up, allow yourself to feel the emotion, and discover the force of Black Flag’s “Depression.”
2. In My Head
Black Flag’s 1985 release of “In My Head,” a legendary song with the same name, marked the band’s debut. This song perfectly captures the distinctive sound of the group with its pulsing bassline and persistent rhythm.
The words “In My Head,” however, are actually what makes the song stand out. Frontman Henry Rollins gives a strong, reflective performance that delved deeply into the human psyche.
Self-doubt, inner conflict, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world are some of the themes that are explored in the song. Anyone who has ever felt lost or alone will be able to relate to this track’s emotional intensity and potency. Therefore, “In My Head” by Black Flag should be listened to if you want a dosage of raw emotion and punk rock vigor.
3. Wasted
Black Flag’s iconic song “Wasted” was first offered on their 1978 debut EP, “Nervous Breakdown.” This song perfectly captures the band’s early style with its piercing guitar riffs and thundering drumming. But “Wasted’s” unadulterated fire and intensity are what actually make it stand out.
Keith Morris, the band’s frontman, gives a piercing vocal performance that brilliantly depicts youthful recklessness. The lyrics relate to a generation that is disoriented and in search of a purpose for their existence.
It’s a classic anthem that still has meaning for modern punk rock lovers. So be sure to check out “Wasted” by Black Flag if you’re in the mood for some vintage punk rock vigor.
4. Revenge
On their 1984 album “Slip It In,” Black Flag produced the ferociously aggressive song “Revenge.” This song is a prime example of the band’s ability to build a wall of sound that strikes you like a ton of bricks with its pounding drums and driving guitar chords.
But the words “Revenge” are what really make it stand out. The anger and resentment of a generation that feels betrayed by the world around them are expertly captured by frontman Henry Rollins’ scorching vocal delivery.
The song discusses the necessity for retaliation and the imperative to act when injustice is present. Anyone who has ever felt like the weight of the world is on their shoulders will be able to relate to this track’s strong and emotive lyrics. So make sure you listen to Black Flag’s “Revenge” if you want a cathartic punk music experience.
5. My War
The iconic Black Flag song “My War” was released in 1984 on their self-titled album. This song indicates a darker, more contemplative direction for the band, departing from their former sound with thick, sludgy guitar chords and pounding drumming.
Frontman Henry Rollins’ somber vocal performance effectively encapsulates the song’s tone. The lyrics address the psychological battles that go on inside each and every one of us, the conflict that is going on inside.
It’s a strong and moving song that has grown to be a fan favorite over time. So make sure to listen to Black Flag’s “My War” if you want a profound, reflective punk music experience.
6. Jealous Again
A timeless Black Flag song, “Jealous Again,” was first offered on their eponymous 1980 EP. This song is a wonderful representation of the band’s early sound thanks to its catchy guitar riffs and energetic tempo.
Keith Morris, the band’s frontman, sings the song with a youthful exuberance that is brilliantly captured by his fun vocal performance. The lyrics discuss how consuming envy is and the damage it can do to our lives.
Your toes will definitely start tapping into this upbeat and contagious song. So be sure to check out “Jealous Again” by Black Flag if you’re in the mood for some vintage punk rock vigor.
7. Rise Above
One of Black Flag’s most recognizable tracks, “Rise Above,” was first made available on their 1981 album “Damaged.” This song is a superb illustration of the band’s distinctive style, with its hard-driving guitar riffs and thudding percussion.
But the motivational lyrics of “Rise Above” are what really make the song stand out. Frontman Henry Rollins gives a strong and inspirational vocal performance that inspires listeners to overcome life’s obstacles and struggles.
The song expresses the strength of the human spirit and its capacity to get over even the most difficult challenges. It has established itself as a mainstay of punk rock culture and is a timeless hymn. So make sure to listen to Black Flag’s “Rise Above” if you need some motivation and punk rock vigor.
8. Nervous Breakdown
Black Flag’s 1978 debut EP, “Nervous Breakdown,” included the song of the same name. This song is a superb representation of the band’s early sound with its quick-paced guitar riffs and thumping percussion. The anger and despair of youth are expertly captured by frontman Keith Morris’ frantic vocal performance.
The lyrics discuss the enormous stress of contemporary life and the toll it can have on our mental health. It’s a gritty, empowering track that has earned a place in punk rock history. So make sure to listen to “Nervous Breakdown” if you’re craving some early Black Flag vigor.
9. Six Pack
The iconic Black Flag song “Six Pack” was first made available on their 1981 album “Damaged.” This song is a superb illustration of the band’s distinctive style, with its hard-driving guitar riffs and thudding percussion.
Henry Rollins, the band’s frontman, gives a ferocious vocal performance that brilliantly encapsulates the punk rock aesthetic of disobedience. The song’s lyrics discuss the benefits and drawbacks of overindulging, as Rollins sings of both the fun of drinking and partying and its potential drawbacks.
It’s a rousing song that will get you fired up and prepared to go. So be sure to listen to Black Flag’s “Six Pack” if you’re seeking for some punk rock party songs.
10. Drinking and Driving
The highlight track from Black Flag’s 1984 album “Family Man” is “Drinking and Driving.” This song reflects the band’s more experimental side and deviates from their earlier style with its powerful, driving bassline and hammering drums.
The song’s lyrics, which discuss the risks of drinking and driving and the toll it can have on our lives, express wrath and frustration, and frontman Henry Rollins’ strong vocal delivery wonderfully captures that.
It is a tight and gloomy song that highlights the Black Flag’s capacity to push the limits of punk rock. So be sure to check out “Drinking and Driving” by Black Flag if you’re in the mood for something dark and thought-provoking.