I Fought The Law (And I Won)

Dead Kennedys' song 'I Fought The Law (And I Won)' is a biting satire that critiques the corruption and hypocrisy within the legal and political systems. The song flips the narrative of the original 'I Fought The Law' by The Crickets, which was later popularized by The Clash, where the protagonist loses against the law. In this version, the protagonist not only defies the law but also emerges victorious, highlighting the flaws and biases in the system.

The lyrics paint a picture of a society where connections and power can override justice. Lines like 'The law don't mean shit if you've got the right friends' and 'You can get away with murder if you've got a badge' underscore the theme of systemic corruption. The protagonist's casual attitude towards serious crimes, such as murder, and his subsequent success and fame, reflect a world where moral and legal accountability are absent for those in power.

The song also touches on themes of racism and white supremacy, as seen in the line 'I'm the new folk hero of the ku-klux-klan.' This disturbing declaration, coupled with the protagonist's camaraderie with corrupt cops, serves as a critique of how certain groups are protected and even celebrated despite their heinous actions. The Dead Kennedys use this song to expose and criticize the deep-seated issues within the justice system and society at large, making it a powerful piece of punk rock commentary.