665

Album: Ultramega OK (1988)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Written by Soundgarden bass player Hiro Yamamoto, 665 is one away from 666, the sign of the devil. The song parodies all those Heavy Metal songs that supposedly include hidden (or not-so-hidden) satanic messages. Soundgarden has said that the association between black magic and rock is ridiculous.
  • When played in reverse, lead singer Chris Cornell can be heard singing, "I need you Santa baby." This is a play on the supposed backward masking found in songs like "Stairway To Heaven."
  • Soundgarden was often pegged as an angsty band, but this song shows their vivid sense of humor. The album title is also a bit of a joke - they liked the songs but weren't thrilled with the way it was produced, so they reflected their conflicted feelings in the title Ultramega OK.

Comments: 3

  • Alice In A Garden from Plainfield, IlYeah this song Hiro Yamamoshi er whatever his name is sang the vocals for this song...or was it 667...but Hiro was an ex basist of soundgarden!
  • Hebrew from St. Paul, MnPer the song facts, apparently they don't think it's that ridiculous.
  • Ashley from Moncton, CanadaI think the earlier Soundgarden is better than the nineties Soundgarden, because there is more high-pitched Cornell screaming.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

JJ Burnel of The Stranglers

JJ Burnel of The StranglersSongwriter Interviews

JJ talks about The Stranglers' signature sound - keyboard and bass - which isn't your typical strain of punk rock.

Frankie Valli

Frankie ValliSong Writing

An interview with Frankie Valli, who talks about why his songs - both solo and with The Four Seasons - have endured, and reflects on his time as Rusty Millio on The Sopranos.

James Williamson of Iggy & the Stooges

James Williamson of Iggy & the StoogesSongwriter Interviews

The Stooges guitarist (and producer of the Kill City album) talks about those early recordings and what really happened with David Bowie.

Tom Keifer of Cinderella

Tom Keifer of CinderellaSongwriter Interviews

Tom talks about the evolution of Cinderella's songs through their first three albums, and how he writes as a solo artist.

Trans Soul Rebels: Songs About Transgenderism

Trans Soul Rebels: Songs About TransgenderismSong Writing

A history of songs dealing with transgender issues, featuring Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Morrissey and Green Day.

Bob Dylan Lyric Quiz

Bob Dylan Lyric QuizMusic Quiz

Think you know your Bob Dylan lyrics? Take this quiz to find out.