Eternal Life

Jeff Buckley

About Eternal Life

"Eternal Life" is a song composed by Jeff Buckley, released as the fourth and final single from his album Grace. It is believed to have been influenced by a long-time love for Led Zeppelin's music and a wish to emulate them in this song. The track is something of an exception on the album, featuring aggressive, overdriven guitar and bass riffs that contrast with the more intimate, melodic format that otherwise characterizes the album. "Eternal Life" can also be found on his 1993 EP Live at Sin-é. Captured on the Live at Sin-é release, is an explanation as to the meaning of this song: In Buckley's own words, "Eternal Life" was inspired by anger over "the man that shot Martin Luther King, World War II, slaughter in Guyana and the Manson murders." 


Year:
1994
4:52
530 
#3

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Eternal life is now on my trail
Got my red glitter coffin, man, just need one last nail
While all these ugly gentlemen play out their foolish games
There's a flaming red horizon that screams our names

And as your fantasies are broken in two
Did you really think this bloody road would pave the way for you?
You better turn around and blow your kiss hello to life eternal,
Angel

Racist everyman, what have you done?
Man, you've made a killer of your unborn son
Oh crown my fear your king at the point of a gun
All I want to do is love everyone

And as your fantasies are broken in two
Did you really think this bloody road would pave the way for you?
You better turn around and blow your kiss hello to life eternal

There's no time for hatred, only questions
What is love, where is happiness, what is life, where is peace?
When will I find the strength to bring me release?

Tell me where is the love in what your prophet has said?
Man, it sounds to me just like a prison for the walking dead
I've got a message for you and your twisted hell
You better turn around and blow your kiss goodbye to life eternal
Angel yeah
Angel, unh, angel, unh

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Jeff Buckley

Jeffrey Scott "Jeff" Buckley (November 17, 1966 – May 29, 1997), raised as Scotty Moorhead, was an American singer-songwriter and guitarist. He was the son of Tim Buckley, also a musician. After a decade as a session guitarist in Los Angeles, Buckley amassed a following in the early 1990s by playing cover songs at venues in Manhattan's East Village, such as Sin-é, gradually focusing more on his own material. After rebuffing much interest from record labels and his father's manager Herb Cohen, he signed with Columbia, recruited a band, and recorded what would be his only studio album, Grace. more »

9 fans

Written by: JEFF BUCKLEY

Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Album
"Eternal Life" is a song from the album "Grace", which is Jeff Buckley's only completed studio album. It was released in 1994.
Songwriting
Whilst Jeff Buckley is credited for writing most of the songs on the "Grace" album, "Eternal Life" is one of the few songs he wrote entirely on his own.
Inspiration
Buckley wrote "Eternal Life" as a response to the anger and frustration he felt regarding ignorance, bullying, and the apparent lack of empathy in society.
Musical Style
The song, unlike the rest of the softer, melancholic tracks on the album, has a heavier, grunge-inspired sound. It showcases Buckley's versatility as a musician.
Live Performances
Variations of the song were performed at many concerts. In fact, a different version of "Eternal Life," often referred to as the "road version," was released on the posthumous album "Mystery White Boy" and became a fan favorite.
Vertical Reality Version
A version of "Eternal Life" with extended lyrics was featured on the "Live from the Bataclan" EP and performed at Buckley's set on the show "Vertical Reality."
Music Video
The song's music video was directed by Ari Marcopoulos and, unlike standard music videos, it was filmed in a manner to show the band performing as if it were a private rehearsal.
Last Performance
"Eternal Life" was one of the last songs Buckley performed live before his accidental death in 1997.
Lyrics Interpretation
The song's lyrics seemed to contemplate the concept of afterlife and karma, delivering a strong message about the consequences of our actions.
Legacy
Given Jeff Buckley's tragically short career, "Eternal Life" is considered as one of his seminal works, showcasing his unique vocal range, emotional intensity, and exceptional songwriting. It continues to inspire musicians and fans around the world.

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