Night Of The Long Knives – AC/DC

Lyrics: Night Of The Long Knives by AC/DC

Oh

Who's your leader? Who's your man?
Who will help you fill your hand?
Who's your friend and who's your foe?
Who's your Judas? You don't know

Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long, long knife

Oh, where's that savior? Where's that light
When you're praying for your life?
Who's that fighting back to back?
Who's defending whose attack?

Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long, long knife
Night of the long knife
Oh, stab him in the back once

It's the night of the long knives
Night of the long knives
Night of the long knives

It's the night
Of the long, long knife
Yeah
Oh, yeah
Oh
It's night of the, night of the
Night of the long, long knife

Unmasking Loyalty and Betrayal

“Night Of The Long Knives” by AC/DC explores the themes of trust, betrayal, and uncertainty in times of crisis. The repeated questioning—“Who’s your leader? Who’s your man?”—emphasizes confusion about whom to trust when stakes are high. The phrase “Night of the long knives” alludes to a historical event marked by treachery and sudden violence, and in the song, it becomes a metaphor for moments when allegiances are tested and hidden enemies emerge. The lyrics evoke a sense of paranoia, with references to backstabbing and the search for a savior. AC/DC’s driving energy amplifies the tension, making this track a powerful reflection on the dangers of blind trust and the reality of deception.

Song Credits

  • Artist: AC/DC
  • Release Year: 1981
  • Album: For Those About to Rock We Salute You
  • Label: Atlantic Records
  • Songwriters: Angus Young, Malcolm Young, Brian Johnson