President Dead
Marilyn Manson · Holy Wood
this is for the people, they want you
getting high on violence, baby
President Dead is clueless
and he's caught in a headlight, police-stated god
and his skull is stained glass
incubated and jet set
the bitter thinkers buy their tickets
to go find god like a piggy in a fair
and we don't want to live forever
and we know that suffering is so much better
this is for the people, they want you
this is for the people, they want you
getting high on violence, baby
give the bills time to work
we all could be martyred in the
winter of our discontent
(getting high on violence, baby)
every night we are nailed into place and
every night we just can't seem to
ever remember the reason why
(getting high on violence, baby)
and we don't want to live forever
and we know that suffering is so much better
this is for the people, they want you
this is for the people, they want you
getting high on violence, baby
and we don't want to live forever
and we know that suffering is so much better
President Dead
Marilyn Manson's "President Dead" serves as a stark centerpiece on the 2000 album Holy Wood. The track captures the industrial and gothic rock intensity that defined the artist's work during this era, reflecting a period of significant cultural and political commentary within his discography. Known for blending shock rock with darker, more experimental sounds, Manson utilized this recording to explore themes of mortality and societal decay. The song stands as a testament to his ability to craft atmospheric, narrative-driven rock that resonated with audiences seeking depth beyond standard pop structures. It remains a notable song in his extensive catalogue, showcasing the dramatic flair and sonic experimentation that characterized the turn of the millennium in alternative music.