Scars on My Soul | My Hearts Got Bruises | Black Flag

"My Hearts Got Bruises" is a heartfelt ballad by American rock band Black Flag, released in 1984 on their album "My Rules". The song's lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, with lead vocalist Henry Rollins pouring out his emotions about the struggles he faced during his early days as a punk rock musician.

The title phrase itself is a metaphor for the emotional scars that Rollins had accumulated throughout his life. Growing up in Washington D.C., Rollins was exposed to the harsh realities of poverty, violence, and social inequality, which took a toll on his mental health. In the song, he laments about the bruises on his heart, symbolizing the emotional pain and trauma he experienced as a result.

The lyrics are raw and unflinching, with Rollins delivering a poignant account of his own struggles with addiction, depression, and self-doubt. He sings about feeling like an outsider, constantly searching for validation and trying to find his place in the world. The song's chorus, "My heart's got bruises, my soul is on fire," serves as a powerful declaration of Rollins' emotional state, with the intensity of his vocals conveying the depth of his pain.

Musically, "My Hearts Got Bruises" features a hauntingly beautiful piano melody, accompanied by subtle guitar work and a driving beat. The song's atmospheric quality adds to its emotional impact, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that draws listeners in.

Despite being released over three decades ago, "My Hearts Got Bruises" remains a deeply relatable and cathartic listen for anyone who has ever struggled with their own demons. Rollins' unflinching honesty and poetic lyrics make the song a timeless classic, one that continues to resonate with fans of punk rock and beyond.