Lyrics: Cold Hearted Man by AC/DC
No one knew where he came from He never knew himself Called her "Ma", called him "Pa" But he was born to someone else No one fooled or messed him 'round 'Cause they were all afraid Ain't no lies Ice in the eyes of Leroy Kincaid Cold-hearted man One time lover, heart in his hand Cold-hearted man And you can't trust nothin' you don't understand Cold-hearted man Cold-hearted man Like a snake, he had no friends He didn't need no one Hurt his pride deep inside He was another mother's son Reputation, broken glass Everybody prayed for their lives, on the street Dare they happen to meet Leroy Kincaid Cold-hearted man One time lover, heart in his hand Cold-hearted man (That's what he was) And you can't trust nothin' you don't understand Cold-hearted man Cold-hearted man Sometimes you can't see The other side It's too well hidden For the naked eye A one time lover With his heart in his hand Two time loser A broken man Cold-hearted man One time lover, heart in his hand Cold-hearted man And you can't trust nothin' you don't understand Cold-hearted man Cold-hearted man
Exploring the Story of “Cold Hearted Man”
The Outcast’s Tale
“Cold Hearted Man” tells the gripping story of Leroy Kincaid, a mysterious figure whose origins are unknown—even to himself. The lyrics paint a portrait of a loner, hardened by life and misunderstood by those around him. Described as a “one time lover” and a “two time loser,” Leroy is feared and avoided, his reputation as cold and dangerous preceding him wherever he goes. The repeated refrain, “you can’t trust nothin’ you don’t understand,” emphasizes the distance and distrust between Leroy and the world, underscoring themes of alienation, mistrust, and the pain that can come from being an outsider. AC/DC’s storytelling here is both haunting and empathetic, inviting listeners to look beyond the tough exterior.
Song Credits
- Artist: AC/DC
- Songwriters: Angus Young, Malcolm Young, Bon Scott
- Release Year: 1978
- Label: Atlantic Records