Hell On High Heels
Mötley Crüe
The Dark Allure of 'Hell On High Heels' by Mötley Crüe
Mötley Crüe's 'Hell On High Heels' delves into the gritty and provocative world of women who use their sexuality as a means of survival and empowerment. The song paints vivid portraits of two characters, Bashful Betty and Sexy Suki, who navigate their lives through a combination of allure, manipulation, and resilience. The lyrics are unapologetically raw, reflecting the band's signature style of glam metal that often explores themes of decadence and rebellion.
Bashful Betty is depicted as a 'bondage brat' with a 'serpent's tongue' and a 'calculating mind.' Her appearance and demeanor are both captivating and dangerous, earning her the moniker 'Hell on high heels.' The imagery of latex and a 'hip shake divine' suggests a woman who is both in control and objectified, using her physicality to command attention and power. The warning to 'wear your rubber boys' if Betty is your date tonight underscores the perilous allure she embodies.
Sexy Suki, on the other hand, is portrayed as a 'little geisha girl' who entertains samurais and lives a life marked by financial struggle and exploitation. The reference to 'HIV V.I.P.' adds a layer of tragic reality, highlighting the risks and consequences of her lifestyle. Despite her hardships, Suki's ability to captivate and seduce remains her primary means of survival, making her another embodiment of 'Hell on high heels.'
The recurring chorus emphasizes the duality of these women's existence: their ability to 'make money' through their seductive prowess and the town's recognition of their infamous reputations. Mötley Crüe's portrayal of these characters is both a celebration of their strength and a critique of the societal conditions that force them into such roles. The song's raw energy and provocative lyrics capture the essence of the band's rebellious spirit and their commentary on the darker sides of fame and survival.