Knockin' On Heaven's Door
Guns N' Roses · Use Your Illusion II
I can't use it anymore
It's getting dark too dark to see
Feels like I'm knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
Mama put my guns in the ground
I can't shoot them anymore
That cold black cloud is comin' down
Feels like I'm knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
"You just better start sniffin' your
Own rank subjugation jack 'cause it's
Just you against your tattered libido,
The bank and the mortician, forever man
And it wouldn't be luck if you could
Get out of life alive"
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
Knockin' On Heaven's Door
A haunting ballad from Guns N' Roses' 1991 album Use Your Illusion II, this track stands as a rare acoustic interlude in the band's signature hard rock catalog. Written by Axl Rose and Slash, the song explores themes of mortality and spiritual longing, contrasting sharply with the band's typical aggression. Its inclusion on the second Use Your Illusion record highlights the group's willingness to blend rock with folk and blues influences during this era. The recording features a stripped-down arrangement that emphasizes Slash's melodic guitar work and Rose's emotive vocals, creating a somber atmosphere that resonates deeply with listeners. It remains a staple of the band's live performances, often serving as a poignant closer that underscores the emotional depth beneath their rebellious image.