Peace Sells by Megadeth is an esoteric song with a handful of meanings, but I will write about the most popular meaning, which is about the stereotypes that “metal-heads” (people who listen to heavy metal and thrash metal) face from American society. According to the song, metal-heads don’t believe in God, they don’t support the “American system”, they don’t pay their bills, and more. Dave Mustaine, lead singer of Megadeth and has a cool last name, was most likely fed up with all these negative stereotypes that he wrote this song to prove them wrong. Here are some lyrics:
“What do you mean, “I don’t believe in God”?
I talk to him every day.”
Here he says that he does believe in God.
“What do you mean, “I don’t support your system”?
I go to court when I have to.”
He goes to court to participate in jury duty.
“What do you mean, “I can’t get to work on time”?
I got nothing better to do.”
He gets to work on time because he has nothing better to do.
“And, what do you mean, “I don’t pay my bills”?
Why do you think I’m broke? Huh?”
He pays his bills and that’s why he is broke.
“What do you mean, “I couldn’t be president, of the United States of America”?
Tell me something, it’s still “We the people”, right?”
Dave says that anyone, even he can be president because it’s “We the people.”
Another meaning of the song comes from the 2nd half of the song (minute 2:16 and forward in the video) with two famous Megadeth quotes, “Can you put a price on peace?” and “Peace sells…, but who’s buying?” It’s self-explanatory.
I love the drum beats starting at 3:00 and forward. The double bass pedals thunder through the rest of the song while the guitar solo screeches loud and proud. Dave’s voice fits perfectly with the song as it transforms from what sounds like speaking to yelling. Perfect heavy metal song. Kudos to Megadeth.
