The meaning of Unchained by Van Halen

Unchained is the 13th track on Van Halen's 1981 album "Fair Warning". The song was written by Eddie Van Halen and features a distinctive guitar riff that drives the song forward.

The lyrics of Unchained are somewhat abstract, but they appear to be about a person who has been held back or restrained in some way. The opening lines, "I've been tied up for so long / I'm ready to break free", suggest a sense of liberation and release. The chorus, "Unchain me, take the weight off my shoulders", reinforces this idea, with the singer asking someone - or something - to set them free from their burdens.

Musically, Unchained is notable for its use of harmonics and tapping techniques on Eddie Van Halen's guitar. The song features a complex arrangement that showcases the band's technical proficiency. David Lee Roth's vocals are characteristically smooth and soulful, adding to the song's overall feel.

Despite not being one of Van Halen's most well-known songs, Unchained has its fans among the band's dedicated following. It's a testament to the group's ability to craft complex, memorable music that rewards repeated listens.