We Suck Young Blood

Album: Hail To The Thief (2003)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This song is about Hollywood, and how executives prey on young, easily exploitable talent.
  • Before Hail To The Thief was released, Radiohead put up posters around Los Angeles that said:

    Hungry?
    Sick?
    Begging for a break?
    Sweet?
    Fresh?
    Strung up by the wrists?
    We want young blood.
    Call 1-800-YOUNG-BLOOD
  • This song is at a very slow tempo, and the first and third beats of the bar are accentuated, rather than the second and fourth, which is the norm. This strange rhythm is partly what gives the song its "creepy" feel, along with Thom Yorke's crackling, bittersweet vocals.
  • The alternate title for this song is "Your Time Is Up." >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Rudi - Melbourne, Australia, for above 4

Comments: 5

  • Sean In Aus from Nswclassy as. great info above too. thnx
  • Gord Wood from London Ont, OnHail to the Thief overall was quite a good cd, except for this god awfull song. I honestly think this is their worst song they have ever produced.
  • Rashed from Camden, NjTango what do you listen to? - N'sync? Backstreet Boys? - get real man - learn to respect other people's tastes in music.
  • Christine from SunderlandGreat band
    very depressing song
  • Tango Fistula from Gila Bend, Azthis band is the most overrated pice of anal flotsam ever.
    sooo "arty" sooooooooooooo dull
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Jesus Thinks You're a Jerk: Rock vs. Televangelists

Jesus Thinks You're a Jerk: Rock vs. TelevangelistsSong Writing

When televangelists like Jimmy Swaggart took on rockers like Ozzy Osbourne and Metallica, the rockers retaliated. Bono could even be seen mocking the preachers.

Jonathan Cain of Journey

Jonathan Cain of JourneySongwriter Interviews

Cain talks about the divine inspirations for "Don't Stop Believin'" and "Faithfully."

Gentle Giant

Gentle GiantSongwriter Interviews

An interview with Ray and Derek Shulman of the progressive rock band Gentle Giant to discuss counterpoint, polyrhythms, and... Bon Jovi.

Deconstructing Doors Songs With The Author Of The Doors Examined

Deconstructing Doors Songs With The Author Of The Doors ExaminedSong Writing

Doors expert Jim Cherry, author of The Doors Examined, talks about some of their defining songs and exposes some Jim Morrison myths.

Album Cover Inspirations

Album Cover InspirationsSong Writing

Some album art was at least "inspired" by others. A look at some very similar covers.

Artis the Spoonman

Artis the SpoonmanSong Writing

Even before Soundgarden wrote a song about him, Artis was the most famous spoon player of all time. So why has he always been broke?