Gouge Away

Album: Doolittle (1989)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This song refers to the biblical story of Samson, who had his eyes gouged out by his enemies and eventually killed them all when he was chained to two pillars in their stronghold. He pulled the pillars down, bringing the building down and killing himself and his enemies. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Eric - Anchorage, AK
  • Pixes drummer David Lovering told MusicRadar: "It's the perfect example of a true Pixies song. It's got the quiet verse and then it goes all-out for the chorus. The way it's structured, it's two opposing layers. I remember when we recorded it, I thought it was the most compelling thing we ever did."

Comments: 8

  • Black Francis from Boston MassIf you know nothing else about the Pixies, know this one song
  • KateOne of my favorite pixie songs! What an influential band
  • Sluggo from BostonThis is the song I want blaring when I'm manning a gatling gun.
  • Shannon A Straughan from Longmont CoGreat song! Turn it up and some marijuana if ya got some.
  • Tim from Pgh, PaPapa Roach did a cover of this song during their lovehatetragedy sessions.
  • Indigo from Adelaide, AustraliaPixies are awesome. they influenced many bands including Nirvana and many songs with their soft, loud, soft style they use in this song. it sounds great.
  • Cory from Richmond, VaThis song alludes the story of Samson and Delilah to one of Frank Black's relationships. In fact, the documentary LOUDquietLOUD, you actually see the woman Frank reffered to as "Missy Aggravation."
  • Iara from Santiago, Chileawesome song of pixies.I love it!
see more comments

Editor's Picks

The Untold Story Of Fiona Apple's Extraordinary Machine

The Untold Story Of Fiona Apple's Extraordinary MachineSong Writing

Fiona's highly-anticipated third album almost didn't make it. Here's how it finally came together after two years and a leak.

Brian Kehew: The Man Behind The Remasters

Brian Kehew: The Man Behind The RemastersSong Writing

Brian has unearthed outtakes by Fleetwood Mac, Aretha Franklin, Elvis Costello and hundreds of other artists for reissues. Here's how he does it.

Glen Phillips of Toad the Wet Sprocket

Glen Phillips of Toad the Wet SprocketSongwriter Interviews

The "All I Want" singer went through a long depression, playing some shows when he didn't want to be alive.

Marvin Gaye

Marvin GayeFact or Fiction

Did Marvin try out with the Detroit Lions? Did he fake crazy to get out of military service? And what about the cross-dressing?

Steve Morse of Deep Purple

Steve Morse of Deep PurpleSongwriter Interviews

Deep Purple's guitarist since 1994, Steve talks about writing songs with the band and how he puts his own spin on "Smoke On The Water."

Songs in Famous Movie Scenes: '80s Edition

Songs in Famous Movie Scenes: '80s EditionMusic Quiz

You know the scenes - Tom Cruise in his own pants-off dance off, Molly Ringwald celebrating her birthday - but do you remember what song is playing?