The Hitman

Album: Innuendo (1991)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Freddie Mercury wrote this song, where he takes on the persona of a nefarious hitman. It could be a metaphor, but it sounds like this guy really likes killing people:

    Gun in my pocket
    Don't get me wrong


    Mercury was responsible for some of the heaviest tracks by the band, like "Ogre Battle," "Stone Cold Crazy" and this one.
  • When Mercury wrote this, it was not as heavy. It was originally written in keyboards, then Brian May transferred it to guitar, changed the key, and added some new parts (he even did a demo with him singing those). Bassist John Deacon reconstructed the track and that's what finally came out. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Sebas - Tokyo, Japan, for above 2

Comments: 5

  • Mamakidd from UsaFreddie wrote hits. He was the hit man.
  • AnonymousI've read that the "hitman" in this song is the HIV that was ravaging Freddie's body at the time. Listen to the lyrics from this perspective and they take on a whole new meaning.
  • Lori from Greenville, ScI like in the song where he says "I'm been to hitman school"..love Freddie's yeah's at the end.
  • Jonathon from Clermont, FlI like the main riff in the song, and Freddy's interjections.
  • Amy from Dallas, Tx'I'm the hitman I'm your prize', Yes you are Freddie =)
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Philip Cody

Philip CodySongwriter Interviews

A talented lyricist, Philip helped revive Neil Sedaka's career with the words to "Laughter In The Rain" and "Bad Blood."

Michael Franti

Michael FrantiSongwriter Interviews

Franti tells the story behind his hit "Say Hey (I Love You)" and explains why yoga is an integral part of his lifestyle and his Soulshine tour.

Graham Parker

Graham ParkerSongwriter Interviews

When Judd Apatow needed under-appreciated rockers for his Knocked Up sequel, he immediately thought of Parker, who just happened to be getting his band The Rumour back together.

Dennis DeYoung

Dennis DeYoungSongwriter Interviews

Dennis DeYoung explains why "Mr. Roboto" is the defining Styx song, and what the "gathering of angels" represents in "Come Sail Away."

Chris Frantz of Talking Heads

Chris Frantz of Talking HeadsSongwriter Interviews

Talking Heads drummer Chris Frantz on where the term "new wave" originated, the story of "Naive Melody," and why they never recorded another cover song after "Take Me To The River."

Dar Williams

Dar WilliamsSongwriter Interviews

A popular contemporary folk singer, Williams still remembers the sticky note that changed her life in college.