Roll Right

Rage Against The Machine's 'Roll Right' is a powerful anthem of rebellion and resistance, reflecting the band's signature style of blending aggressive rock with politically charged lyrics. The song opens with a reference to Ralph Ellison, an influential African American writer known for his novel 'Invisible Man,' which explores themes of racial injustice and identity. This sets the tone for the song's exploration of systemic oppression and the fight against it. The mention of Gaza and Tienanmen further emphasizes the global scale of resistance, drawing parallels between different struggles for freedom and justice.

The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and metaphors that convey a sense of urgency and defiance. Phrases like 'I cut back tha sling to stone a settler' and 'I hijack the papers' evoke a sense of taking action against oppressors and reclaiming power. The repeated line 'Here comes the hands on the leashes' symbolizes the control exerted by those in power, while 'the cross, the capital, the pale families, the fear and the mouthpieces' represent the various institutions and forces that maintain this control. The song's chorus, 'Roll right! Roll call! But now we're alright, we're all calm!' suggests a call to action and unity, encouraging listeners to stand together and fight back.

The concept of the 'seventh level' in the song's climax can be interpreted as a metaphor for reaching a higher state of awareness or a more intense level of struggle. The repeated exhortation to 'send 'em to the seventh level' implies a determination to push the fight to its utmost limits, refusing to settle for anything less than true justice and equality. This relentless drive for change is a hallmark of Rage Against The Machine's music, which consistently challenges listeners to question authority and take a stand against injustice.

'Roll Right' is a testament to the band's commitment to social and political activism, using their music as a platform to inspire and mobilize. The song's powerful message and energetic delivery make it a rallying cry for those who seek to challenge the status quo and fight for a better world.