Def Leppard “Animal” Lyrics Meaning

“Animal” is a powerful rock song by the English band Def Leppard, released in 1987 as the first single from their iconic album Hysteria. The track marked a significant milestone for the band, becoming their first Top 10 hit in the United Kingdom, where it reached No. 6 on the Singles Chart.

The song is a raw, intense exploration of primal desire and passion. It captures the essence of 1980s rock music with its visceral lyrics and energetic sound. The track took three years to complete, with the band meticulously crafting the song under the production of Mutt Lang. Guitarist Phil Collins originally wrote the initial version of the song, which was later refined and transformed into the hit that would help define Def Leppard’s musical style.

Thematically, “Animal” delves into the concept of unfiltered, instinctual desire. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of raw emotional and physical longing, emphasizing touch and physical connection over romantic love. The song’s repeated use of the word “animal” underscores the primal nature of the emotions being expressed, suggesting a state of unbridled passion that transcends traditional romantic narratives.

Musically, the song exemplifies Def Leppard’s signature sound, blending hard rock elements with a polished, radio-friendly production. It became a crucial part of the band’s breakthrough Hysteria album, which would go on to achieve massive commercial success.

In this article, we’ll explore the message conveyed in the song’s lyrics.

“Animal” Lyrics Meaning

[Verse 1]

A wild ride, over stony ground

Such a lust for life, the circus comes to town

We are the hungry ones, on a lightning raid

Just like a river runs, like a fire needs flame

Oh, I burn for you

This section sets the tone for the song, describing a wild and exciting experience. The “circus comes to town” metaphor suggests a thrilling and perhaps chaotic atmosphere. The lyrics express a strong, primal desire using natural imagery like rivers and fire.

[Chorus]

I got to feel it in my blood, whoa, oh

I need your touch don’t need your love, whoa, oh

And I want, and I need, and I lust, animal

And I want, and I need, and I lust, animal

The chorus emphasizes the physical nature of the desire, focusing on touch and feeling rather than emotional connection. The repeated use of “animal” reinforces the primal, instinctual aspect of the lust being described.

[Verse 2]

I cry wolf, given mouth to mouth

Like a moving heartbeat, in the witching hour

I’m running with the wind, a shadow in the dust

And like the driving rain, hey, like the restless rust

I never sleep

This verse continues the theme of intense desire, using vivid imagery to convey a sense of urgency and restlessness. The “witching hour” and “shadow in the dust” create a mysterious, almost supernatural atmosphere.

[Verse 3]

Huh! Oh! Cry wolf baby, cry tough

Going to hunt you like an, uh, uh, animal

Going to take your love and run

The third verse intensifies the animalistic theme, with phrases like “cry wolf” and “hunt you like an animal” further emphasizing the primal nature of the desire being expressed.

[Outro]

And I want (And I want)

And I need (And I need)

And I lust (And I lust)

Animal (Animal)

And I want (Take me)

And I need (Tame me)

And I lust (Make me)

Animal (Your Animal)

And I want (Show me)

And I need (Stroke me)

And I lust (Let me be your)

Animal (Animal)

And I want (I want)

And I need (Ooh, ooh, ooh)

And I lust

Animal (Animal)

The outro repeats and reinforces the main themes of want, need, and lust. The added lines like “Take me,” “Tame me,” and “Let me be your animal” provide a more submissive tone, contrasting with the aggressive desire expressed earlier in the song.

Deeper Meaning Behind “Animal”

“Animal” by Def Leppard is a song that explores themes of raw, primal desire and unbridled passion. Released in 1987 as part of their album “Hysteria,” the track delves into the animalistic nature of human lust and physical attraction.

The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of intense, carnal desire that goes beyond romantic love. It speaks to the instinctual, almost predatory aspect of human sexuality, emphasizing physical touch and primal urges over emotional connection. The repeated use of phrases like “I want,” “I need,” and “I lust” underscores the urgency and intensity of these feelings.

While the surface-level interpretation focuses on sexual desire, the song also touches on broader themes of embracing one’s wild, untamed nature. It encourages listeners to tap into their most authentic, uninhibited selves, free from societal constraints. This message resonates with many fans, who see the song as an anthem for living life to the fullest and pursuing one’s passions with fierce intensity.

Interestingly, the song’s production process mirrors its themes of raw energy and refinement. Originally written by guitarist Phil Collen, “Animal” underwent significant revisions over three years before reaching its final form. This meticulous approach to crafting the song resulted in a unique blend of hard rock edge and polished pop sensibilities, contributing to its enduring appeal and commercial success.

“Animal” marked a significant milestone for Def Leppard, becoming their first top 10 hit in their native UK. Its success helped propel the “Hysteria” album to massive global popularity, solidifying the band’s status as rock icons of the 1980s.

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