About the song
Historical Imagery:
“Egypt (The Chains Are On)” transports listeners to ancient Egypt, a time when the people were oppressed by Pharaohs. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the suffering and injustice they endured under Pharaoh’s brutal rule.
A Call to Arms:
Dio uses powerful and emotive lyrics to convey a message of fighting for freedom. The repeated imagery of “chains” represents oppression and restraint, evoking the Egyptians’ resentment and yearning to break free from their shackles.
Courage Erupts:
Despite the oppression, a flame of hope and courage still burns within the hearts of the Egyptian people. They refuse to bow to violence, instead gathering their strength and waiting for the right moment to rise up.
The Song of Freedom:
The chorus of the song rings out like a victory cry, signaling their liberation from Pharaoh’s rule. The imagery of “eagles soaring” symbolizes the freedom and pride of the Egyptian people as they reclaim their liberty.
A Song of Hope:
“Egypt (The Chains Are On)” is not just a song about history; it’s a reminder of the importance of freedom and courage. The song carries a message of hope that no matter what challenges and hardships we face, we can always overcome and achieve our freedom.
Musical Analysis:
“Egypt (The Chains Are On)” carries a powerful and anthemic sound with driving guitar riffs and pounding drums. Ronnie James Dio’s soaring and powerful vocals further enhance the song’s drama and emotion.
Conclusion:
“Egypt (The Chains Are On)” is a classic Dio rock song, not only for its impressive music but also for its meaningful message of freedom and courage. It serves as an anthem of encouragement for those fighting for freedom and hope for a brighter future.
Video
Lyrics
“Egypt (The Chains Are On)”
In the land of the lost horizon
Where the queen lies dark and cold
And when the stars won’t shine
Then the story’s toldWhen the world was milk and honey
And the magic was strong and true
Then the strange ones came
And the people knew
That the chains were on
That the chains were onMy, my, my
In the land of no tomorrow
Where you pray just to end each day
And your life just slowly melts awayEach day you hear the sand
As it moves and whispers
Come and sail on my golden sea
Maybe one day you’ll be just like me
And that’s free but still
Your chains are on
Yes, your chains are on
Still, your chains are onYou’ve seen them walking on the water
You’ve seen them flying through the sky
They were frightening in the darkness
They had rainbows in their eyesWhen the world was milk and honey
And the magic was strong and true
Then the strange ones came
And the people knew
That the chains were on
That the chains were on
That the chains were on
That the chains were on
Oh my, the chains were onIn the land of the lost horizon
Where the chains are on
In the land of milk and honey
Still, the chains are on
Where the queen lies dark and lonely
Still, her chains are on
And the world was new and magic
But the chains are onThe chains were on, the chains were on
Yeah, the chains were on
The chains were on, the chains were onSeen them walking on the water
The chains were on
Seen them flying through the sky
My, the chains were on
They were frightening in the darkness
Yes, the chains were on
They had rainbows in their eyes
The chains were on