Voices in the Dark: A Descent into Madness | Son Of Sam | Dead Boys

The song "Son of Sam" by Dead Boys is a punk rock masterpiece that tells the story of David Berkowitz, also known as the Son of Sam, a serial killer who terrorized New York City in the late 1970s. The lyrics are a haunting portrayal of Berkowitz's crimes and the fear he instilled in the people of New York.

The song's opening lines, "David Berkowitz, the devil's son," immediately set the tone for the rest of the song, which is a dark and intense exploration of Berkowitz's psyche. The lyrics are written from the perspective of Berkowitz himself, with the Dead Boys' lead singer, Stiv Bators, delivering a haunting vocal performance that captures the killer's twisted thoughts.

As the song progresses, the Dead Boys paint a vivid picture of Berkowitz's crimes, referencing specific incidents and victims. The lyrics are unflinching in their portrayal of the violence and terror inflicted by Berkowitz, who claimed to have heard his victims' voices telling him to kill. The song is not just a retelling of the events, but also an exploration of the societal factors that led to Berkowitz's descent into madness.

Despite its dark subject matter, "Son of Sam" is a fiercely energetic and rebellious punk rock song, with driving guitars and pounding drums that capture the intensity of the Dead Boys' live performances. The song has become an iconic punk anthem, and its inclusion on the band's 1977 album, Weasel, helped cement their reputation as one of the most influential punk bands of the late 1970s.

Overall, "Son of Sam" is a haunting and thought-provoking song that combines the raw energy of punk rock with a deep exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. It's a testament to the Dead Boys' ability to craft songs that are both catchy and thought-provoking, and it remains one of their most beloved and enduring tracks.