Only Woman Bleed

Guns N' Roses' rendition of 'Only Woman Bleed' is a poignant exploration of domestic abuse and the silent suffering endured by many women. Originally recorded by Alice Cooper, the song delves into the emotional and physical pain that women often face in abusive relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who is trapped in a cycle of pleasing her man, despite the neglect and violence she endures. The repeated line 'Only woman bleed' underscores the unique and often overlooked suffering that women experience in these situations.

The song's narrative highlights the power dynamics in abusive relationships, where the man holds the power and the woman is left with the need to please. The lyrics describe a woman who spends her life trying to make her partner happy, only to be met with neglect and abuse. The imagery of her crying alone at night while her partner smokes, drinks, and stays out late is a powerful depiction of her isolation and despair. The line 'He slaps you once in a while and you live and love in pain' starkly illustrates the physical abuse she endures, further emphasizing the song's theme of suffering.

Guns N' Roses' performance of this song in 1992, particularly in Paris, brought attention to the issue of domestic abuse on a global stage. The raw emotion in the lyrics and the haunting repetition of 'Only woman bleed' serve as a powerful reminder of the pain that many women face behind closed doors. The song calls for awareness and empathy, urging listeners to recognize and address the issue of domestic abuse. By covering this song, Guns N' Roses not only paid homage to Alice Cooper but also used their platform to shed light on a critical social issue.