He be the count of Monte Cristo
Could be a quake any day
Maybe somebody from Siam
Begin the era of a new Reich
Keeps licking all the honey
Chewing up the fat he rakes
Instead of sending to the lions
They cover him with praise
All hail Caesar
Hail! Hail!
All hail Caesar
Hail! Hail!
Down at the epicenter, things started heatin’ up
Rocking up the Richter scale
Swinging in the chariot, around and around, we go
The senators rehearse the tale
Starring in the Coliseum
Tied upon the rack
Up, comes the thumb of Caesar
To stab you in the back
All hail Caesar
Hail! Hail!
All hail Caesar
Hail! Hail!
Down at the epicenter, things started heatin’ up
Rocking on the Richter scale
Swingin’ in the chariot, around and around, we go
As the senators rehearse the tale
Watch out, Caesar
Watch out, Caesar
I said, “Hail”
I said, “Hail”
I said, “Hail”
I said, “Hail”
Hail!
Hail!
Hail!
Hail!
Hail!
Hail!
Hail!
Hail!
Hail!
All hail Caesar
Hail! Hail!
All hail Caesar
Hail! Hail!
All hail Caesar
Hail! Hail!
All hail Caesar
Hail! Hail!
You need eyes in the back of your head, boy
Or you’re dead
Unpacking the Power and Paranoia of “Hail Caesar”
“Hail Caesar” by AC/DC delivers a hard-hitting commentary through vivid, historical imagery. The lyrics conjure the ruthless spectacle of ancient Rome, drawing parallels to modern power structures. References to the Count of Monte Cristo, gladiatorial games, and the new Reich paint a picture of leaders who are worshipped, feared, and ultimately dangerous. The recurring chant of “All hail Caesar” echoes both the praise and the lurking threat that surrounds those in power. The song’s narrative warns that admiration can quickly turn to betrayal, as highlighted by the iconic, backstabbing thumb of Caesar. AC/DC’s energetic delivery amplifies the tension, reminding listeners that in the world of power, you always need to watch your back.
Song Credits
- Artist: AC/DC
- Songwriters: Angus Young, Malcolm Young
- Release Year: 1995
- Label: EastWest Records