Hanging Tree
Uriah Heep · Blood On Stone: Anthology V.2 [1972]
Passing through the arms of Satan
Reaching for the hands of God
Robbing every mind for wisdom
Running so he won't be caught
He's outlawed by majority
Been branded all his life
Some say that he's a sinner man
As he rides from day to night
He's a bad man so they say
Living for his love and living free
Riding swift and secretly
So he'll miss the hanging tree
Wounded spirit on the wind
Riding to his dream and destiny
He's laughing at the wanted posters
Calling for his friends to see
Laughing loud as he rides away
Kicking up the dust with speed
Time hands him down a pathway
And freedom is a horse he rides
Glory is a dream he's after
And fortune is his heart's delight
He's a bad man so they say
Living for his love and living free
Riding swift and secretly
So he'll miss the hanging tree
Wounded spirit on the wind
Riding to his dream and destiny
Reaching for the hands of God
Robbing every mind for wisdom
Running so he won't be caught
He's outlawed by majority
Been branded all his life
Some say that he's a sinner man
As he rides from day to night
He's a bad man so they say
Living for his love and living free
Riding swift and secretly
So he'll miss the hanging tree
Wounded spirit on the wind
Riding to his dream and destiny
He's laughing at the wanted posters
Calling for his friends to see
Laughing loud as he rides away
Kicking up the dust with speed
Time hands him down a pathway
And freedom is a horse he rides
Glory is a dream he's after
And fortune is his heart's delight
He's a bad man so they say
Living for his love and living free
Riding swift and secretly
So he'll miss the hanging tree
Wounded spirit on the wind
Riding to his dream and destiny
Hanging Tree
Uriah Heep's 'Hanging Tree' stands as a defining track from their 1972 album Blood On Stone: Anthology V.2. As a cornerstone of the British hard rock and heavy metal genres, the song exemplifies the band's signature blend of melodic guitar work and driving rhythms. Released during a pivotal era for prog rock transitioning into heavier sounds, the recording showcases the group's ability to craft atmospheric yet powerful compositions. The track has since become a staple in their discography, often cited by fans and critics alike for its enduring energy and contribution to the classic rock canon. Its inclusion in anthologies highlights its status as a significant work within the band's catalog.