“Don’t tread on me” is written on the Gadsden flag. The flag was first used during the revolutionary war. It’s an anti-tyranny flag. The rattle snake on the flag has a much deeper meaning than most think. Rattle snakes are somewhat “timid”, for lack of a better term, in that they don’t go out and attack people BUT they are ready to strike if you mess them or “tread” on them. Libertarians use this flag today and the rattle snake signifies the Non-aggression Principle. The NAP is the belief that aggression should never be used offensively but should absolutely be used in self defense against an aggressor or oppressive government.
Oh, that flag that one teacher said was "racist" and had a kid disciplined then his parents came in and made that teacher look like the fool she is! smh!
You know why i think you're a true Metallica fan? Because you actually dig deep into their catalogue. Most of other reaction channels only explore the surface and then call it a day. Seriously you're one of the few that had make a video on this song, or Outlaw Torn or Fixxxer. And for that i respect you, because it makes your videos more honest.
@@rons2189 means I want to be left alone, and government has no authority outside of what is defined by the Constitution, to stop me from doing as I please. Otherwise, there will be problems.
@@chrisdavis3433 I agree with that. I'm just saying most of any of that government overreach would be considered tyranny. I'm very much of the same mindset. It's just that the word tyranny covers most of that.
James wrote this while they were watching the news in the studio as they were recording the Black Album. Desert Storm started then. That's where he got the inspiration
7:30 It's a vocal accent to accentuate the rhythm breakdown section coming out of the solo. Super effective in drawing attention and James Hetfield is an absolute master of vocal accents and vocal dynamics, especially live! Lots of metal singers adopt these techniques from him.
I love how Metallica incorporated “West Side Story” in the intro...”I want to live in America” One of my favorite movie/show when I was kid. RIP Natalie Woods.
This composition simply and beautifully encompasses the description and meaning of the Gadsden flag. It very accurately and clearly describes the meaningful, symbolic use of the rattle snake, its current posture and the words "Don't Tread On Me". Contrary to some beliefs, it is NOT a flag representative of U.S. government. It is representative of "We The People" which are two separate entities. There is a lot of historical evidence that shows that a large number of revolutionary soldiers that were not attached to any formal Continental Army unit, flew this flag in battle during the American Revolution because having no formal unit crest, the Gadsden was the default "People's crest". Some factual evidence that points to this is its common use within the Sons of Liberty. A somewhat secret organization that supported American independence and acted to further its fruition. An important thing to remember about this, that has echoed through time and holds relevance still today, is that our government DID NOT come first. People like you and I formed the platform for "what we so proudly hail" and THEN developed the governing body that was/is meant to carry out the business of "we the people" since the entire nation can not convene on a daily basis to deliberate the country's business. We gather in our respective communities and vote for who will represent us in our governing body. This requires a great deal of faith and trust in those we elect. This flag is a reminder to elected officials and any other non-private based body, that we are not to be ignored, disrespected, misrepresented, underrepresented or otherwise mistreated, because we do have the capability of a deadly strike (open mouth, displaying fangs of a venomous species) and we are always ready to apply it if need be (coiled stance). Though not depicted as well in the flag, we all know snakes never close their eyes, symbolizing that we are always watching and aware of implications that affect us. The rattle, having three meanings in one, conveniently shows 13 segments that stand for each of the original 13 colonies. Rattle snakes' rattles never stop growing which translates to the understanding that the founders of the country knew that the nation would gain more states in its union, ever growing. Thirdly the rattle is meant to warn would be predators of its dangerous capabilities and its presence, as the rattle snake's nature is to preferably use its venom in subduing prey rather than in defense. The grass that the snake sits upon is said to represent the individuals' right to ownership of property and the right to defend it. It gives a basis for which the snake occupies a space of its own and is guarding. The words "Don't Tread On Me" is perhaps the most straight-forward portion of the flag. The meaning being if you step on me, I'll be forced to strike and you'll be in a bad way. Translating to the idea that we are not a helpless body (reference the 2nd amendment) that can be dictated or mistreated (tread or stepped upon) by any organization, government or outside entity. If you are a citizen of the United States, no matter race, creed, sex, gender, culture, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or favorite color, this flag represents YOU! It is important to know and carry on its meaning because it embodies the very structure upon which our nation stands upon. It is a reminder to all of us that although we are a peace loving people, none of us are complacent in our DUTY as Americans to not lose sight of the fact that WE are the boss. We dictate our destiny as a whole AND individually. And we not only have the right to defend, we have the capability to defend our inalienable right "to be secure in our persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized." This matters to you as an American, regardless of your awareness of it, as much as the next breath you take. As much as the next beat your heart makes. And it matters as much today, as it did in 1776.
The wah pedal is a playing style Kirk Hammet likes, almost every song he uses one. Kirk said he likes using it because it mimics his inner voice and allows him to sing with a guitar.
My man!!! So excited to see you posted this reaction! So happy you enjoyed the song; I will say the wah peddle got to be a littttle too frequent in Metallica’s later stuff. I love it, sure, but as they got older they were tending to rely on tricks to maybe cover up finger play messiness. Just IMO. You should listen to King Nothing off their Load album. Or Carpe Diem. Or Prince Charming. Or Bad seed. They are probably my favorite songs of their that’s newer
Research the Gadsden flag and the American Revolution. But specifically the rattle snake as the symbol of the American spirit. I (and some others) think the tune in the beginning you're referring to may be "I like to live in America" from West Side Story.
As many have pointed out, this song is a reference to the Gadsden flags snake with "Don't Tread On Me" written underneath it. What I haven't seen mentioned here is that the snake from the flag is also on the cover of the "Black Album", the album this song was released on.
Nice to see reactions to some deep cuts! Good interpretation of the solo, I agree. The wah is a nice tool when you want some added emphasis on your leads.
Haven’t heard this for years. I think the start is some American patriotic tune and I believe there was a Don’t Tread on Me flag during some conflict. I remember James saying they felt like they bashed their homeland so much they just wanted to do something pro US. That’s just off the top of my head without looking anything up.
@@TheLastGarou The yellow flag is the Gadsden flag from the American Revolutionary war, named after its creator, Christopher Gadsden, who was from South Carolina and in command of the 1st South Carolina Regiment.
Don’t Tread on Me is the motto of the Gadsen Flag, which is a yellow flag with a rattle snake on it (no step on snake meme). You can also see that snake on the cover of the black album cover, which this track is on. The rattlesnake symbolizes the ideals that it won’t start the fight, but if provoked, it won’t back away and will fight with everything it has. So don’t tread on me unless you’re willing to face the full wrath and violence that will be provoked if you continue to do so. Read up on the history of the Gadsen Flag and the symbolism within.
The opening riff is a tribute to West Side Story song "America" by Leonard Bernstein/Stephen Sondheim. When the Puerto Riquenas were singing about life in America.
You know, each MetallicA song is different, it always surprises you. And this speciality has a funny rythm, lol. You must react for one of the best songs in Reload album: Low Man's Lyric.
Hetfield was said to have disliked the song, as revealed in an interview, in which he stated: "There are some songs on there I don't like. 'Don't Tread on Me', probably not one of my favorite songs musically."
I used to use this song to get hyped up before playing hockey. Well, this and others, but yeah it’s great to kinda pump yourself up and get yourself in a competitive mindset where you’re not gonna take shit from nobody and dominate, mentally.
Metallica has been my favorite band for about 35 years,,,,, but,,,, after hearing Volbeat’s cover about 15 times in 5 days,,,, I think I like theirs better. Love both!
Metallica has been my favorite band since the late 80's. Can't go wrong with any of their songs. Not sure if you will take a look at them, but they are incredible. Aaron O'Keefe is a teacher and the students, ages 4 to 17 play a bunch of different covers. Please check out their cover of Iron Maiden's "Number of the Beast." You won't be disappointed. What it Do my brother, keep up the awesome work.
This song was written during the start of the gulf war pretty sure he was in the moment. A year and a half in the life of Metallica documentary shows them watching the war start.
Just heard Volbeat cover this song for the Blacklist Album and it just kills, next would be Chris Stapleton covering Nothing Else Matters for the album. 2 of the best on there. Rawk on!!
Rattlesnake, one of the most venomous snakes around just react by instinct when they are in danger, also one of the most fierce creature in nature, that is what Hetfield tried to include in this song, "do not mess with peoples freedom".
Yes it is definitely a song about America, the fact that keeping peace sometimes requires conflict, but the ultimate meaning is that don't tread on me = don't threaten individual liberty/freedom and rights, and advocates the defense of such (which is what the rattlesnake from the Gadsden flag represents.)
Hello friend, I've been loving your reactions friend..idk what good it is to suggest but I've been asking music reactor to please please react to a band Muse..Psyco, Undisclosed Desires and Pressure are my top 3 songs although they have much more..Psycho is a banger and Pressure funk rock. Undisclosed Desires is just an amazing song too! If you're looking for a funky, different rock song then this is the band for you! Muse is next level please give them a try
Love that whining guitar solo there's something about that would that makes me just want to hear it again and again on an endless loop it's like a scared mad threatened cat who happens to be hungry and ready to kill
“Don’t tread on me” is written on the Gadsden flag. The flag was first used during the revolutionary war. It’s an anti-tyranny flag. The rattle snake on the flag has a much deeper meaning than most think. Rattle snakes are somewhat “timid”, for lack of a better term, in that they don’t go out and attack people BUT they are ready to strike if you mess them or “tread” on them. Libertarians use this flag today and the rattle snake signifies the Non-aggression Principle. The NAP is the belief that aggression should never be used offensively but should absolutely be used in self defense against an aggressor or oppressive government.
Oh, that flag that one teacher said was "racist" and had a kid disciplined then his parents came in and made that teacher look like the fool she is! smh!
You know why i think you're a true Metallica fan? Because you actually dig deep into their catalogue. Most of other reaction channels only explore the surface and then call it a day. Seriously you're one of the few that had make a video on this song, or Outlaw Torn or Fixxxer. And for that i respect you, because it makes your videos more honest.
some people only react to enter sandman. they are missing out on a lot of great music.
For me this song a a patriots anthem. I love this song.
It was a slogan during the American Revolution that was represented by a snake cut into 13 pieces. It's on the Gadsden Flag.
I was near san Diego when 9/11 happened. The local rock station looped this song on repeat for several days.
The wah is for added flavor when needed... Don't Tread On Me is and American militia man defense flag/anti tyranny flag
Don't Tread on Me is emblazoned on the Gadsden Flag. It was an official flag of the US. Not simply a militia flag or anti tyranny.
Gadsden flag....still in play.👀
@@chrisdavis3433 what do you think don't tread on me means?
@@rons2189 means I want to be left alone, and government has no authority outside of what is defined by the Constitution, to stop me from doing as I please. Otherwise, there will be problems.
@@chrisdavis3433 I agree with that. I'm just saying most of any of that government overreach would be considered tyranny. I'm very much of the same mindset. It's just that the word tyranny covers most of that.
James wrote this while they were watching the news in the studio as they were recording the Black Album. Desert Storm started then. That's where he got the inspiration
7:30 It's a vocal accent to accentuate the rhythm breakdown section coming out of the solo. Super effective in drawing attention and James Hetfield is an absolute master of vocal accents and vocal dynamics, especially live! Lots of metal singers adopt these techniques from him.
The anthem for Patriots worldwide.....just leave us alone.
Blessings from England
I love how Metallica incorporated “West Side Story” in the intro...”I want to live in America” One of my favorite movie/show when I was kid. RIP Natalie Woods.
So few people know what that intro was referring to.
This composition simply and beautifully encompasses the description and meaning of the Gadsden flag. It very accurately and clearly describes the meaningful, symbolic use of the rattle snake, its current posture and the words "Don't Tread On Me". Contrary to some beliefs, it is NOT a flag representative of U.S. government. It is representative of "We The People" which are two separate entities. There is a lot of historical evidence that shows that a large number of revolutionary soldiers that were not attached to any formal Continental Army unit, flew this flag in battle during the American Revolution because having no formal unit crest, the Gadsden was the default "People's crest". Some factual evidence that points to this is its common use within the Sons of Liberty. A somewhat secret organization that supported American independence and acted to further its fruition. An important thing to remember about this, that has echoed through time and holds relevance still today, is that our government DID NOT come first. People like you and I formed the platform for "what we so proudly hail" and THEN developed the governing body that was/is meant to carry out the business of "we the people" since the entire nation can not convene on a daily basis to deliberate the country's business. We gather in our respective communities and vote for who will represent us in our governing body. This requires a great deal of faith and trust in those we elect. This flag is a reminder to elected officials and any other non-private based body, that we are not to be ignored, disrespected, misrepresented, underrepresented or otherwise mistreated, because we do have the capability of a deadly strike (open mouth, displaying fangs of a venomous species) and we are always ready to apply it if need be (coiled stance). Though not depicted as well in the flag, we all know snakes never close their eyes, symbolizing that we are always watching and aware of implications that affect us. The rattle, having three meanings in one, conveniently shows 13 segments that stand for each of the original 13 colonies. Rattle snakes' rattles never stop growing which translates to the understanding that the founders of the country knew that the nation would gain more states in its union, ever growing. Thirdly the rattle is meant to warn would be predators of its dangerous capabilities and its presence, as the rattle snake's nature is to preferably use its venom in subduing prey rather than in defense. The grass that the snake sits upon is said to represent the individuals' right to ownership of property and the right to defend it. It gives a basis for which the snake occupies a space of its own and is guarding. The words "Don't Tread On Me" is perhaps the most straight-forward portion of the flag. The meaning being if you step on me, I'll be forced to strike and you'll be in a bad way. Translating to the idea that we are not a helpless body (reference the 2nd amendment) that can be dictated or mistreated (tread or stepped upon) by any organization, government or outside entity. If you are a citizen of the United States, no matter race, creed, sex, gender, culture, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or favorite color, this flag represents YOU! It is important to know and carry on its meaning because it embodies the very structure upon which our nation stands upon. It is a reminder to all of us that although we are a peace loving people, none of us are complacent in our DUTY as Americans to not lose sight of the fact that WE are the boss. We dictate our destiny as a whole AND individually. And we not only have the right to defend, we have the capability to defend our inalienable right "to be secure in our persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized." This matters to you as an American, regardless of your awareness of it, as much as the next breath you take. As much as the next beat your heart makes. And it matters as much today, as it did in 1776.
Liberty or death America..anywhere...anywhere? Great reaction great song
The wah pedal is a playing style Kirk Hammet likes, almost every song he uses one. Kirk said he likes using it because it mimics his inner voice and allows him to sing with a guitar.
One of my favorites on The Black Album!🤟🏿🔥🔥🔥
Great video as always man 🤘🏻 as long as america remains in liberty the other ones still have a chance!
Cheers 🇨🇱
Ooooh you should do Of Wolf And Man of this album. The delivery of the second verse is just pure brutality
My man with another Metallica vid! YESSIR!!!!
YESSSS! Love Metallica! So good :)
The lyrics are taken almost word for word from an essay by Benjamin Franklin comparing the then colonies to a rattlesnake
Your one of the very few who have reacted to this jam
If you’re Kirk Hammett you’re going to use the wah period.
I had my buddy play this for me on the phone while i was in basic training. Ft. Knox 91 Knights of the Night!!!!
My man!!! So excited to see you posted this reaction! So happy you enjoyed the song; I will say the wah peddle got to be a littttle too frequent in Metallica’s later stuff. I love it, sure, but as they got older they were tending to rely on tricks to maybe cover up finger play messiness. Just IMO. You should listen to King Nothing off their Load album. Or Carpe Diem. Or Prince Charming. Or Bad seed. They are probably my favorite songs of their that’s newer
METALLICA FAMILY
Ahh I knew you’d be feelin’ 5:47 haha Awesome reaction, as always
Back when they were still bringing the heat .
🤘😎🤘
Excellent reaction, thank you.
Research the Gadsden flag and the American Revolution. But specifically the rattle snake as the symbol of the American spirit. I (and some others) think the tune in the beginning you're referring to may be "I like to live in America" from West Side Story.
As many have pointed out, this song is a reference to the Gadsden flags snake with "Don't Tread On Me" written underneath it.
What I haven't seen mentioned here is that the snake from the flag is also on the cover of the "Black Album", the album this song was released on.
Nice to see reactions to some deep cuts! Good interpretation of the solo, I agree. The wah is a nice tool when you want some added emphasis on your leads.
Haven’t heard this for years. I think the start is some American patriotic tune and I believe there was a Don’t Tread on Me flag during some conflict. I remember James saying they felt like they bashed their homeland so much they just wanted to do something pro US. That’s just off the top of my head without looking anything up.
The snake on the Black Album is the same snake on the Don’t Tread On Me flag
The "Don't Tread on Me" flag is from the Revolutionary War. I don't remember off the top of my head which unit it's from though.
@@TheLastGarou yes sir!
@@TheLastGarou The yellow flag is the Gadsden flag from the American Revolutionary war, named after its creator, Christopher Gadsden, who was from South Carolina and in command of the 1st South Carolina Regiment.
Don’t Tread on Me is the motto of the Gadsen Flag, which is a yellow flag with a rattle snake on it (no step on snake meme). You can also see that snake on the cover of the black album cover, which this track is on. The rattlesnake symbolizes the ideals that it won’t start the fight, but if provoked, it won’t back away and will fight with everything it has. So don’t tread on me unless you’re willing to face the full wrath and violence that will be provoked if you continue to do so. Read up on the history of the Gadsen Flag and the symbolism within.
Best Libertarian song ever.
This is actually the title of the black album but only as the symbol portion of it. Most call it the black album tho
This is what the 2nd amendment rights is about! Let us not forget they work for us! Not the other way around!
I was in a Marching band and it sounds like its close to 120bpm, and the the rattlesnake almost became the us national animal
i dont care what anyone says.This solo is the most powerfull Kirk solo ever.
The opening riff is a tribute to West Side Story song "America" by Leonard Bernstein/Stephen Sondheim. When the Puerto Riquenas were singing about life in America.
What goes into deciding to use the wah wah pedal? 1st factor-you need to be Kirk Hammett. He loves it!!!
The intro of this song is called “America” from West Side Story.
love the honesty though brother
You know, each MetallicA song is different, it always surprises you. And this speciality has a funny rythm, lol.
You must react for one of the best songs in Reload album: Low Man's Lyric.
Hetfield was said to have disliked the song, as revealed in an interview, in which he stated: "There are some songs on there I don't like. 'Don't Tread on Me', probably not one of my favorite songs musically."
Doodoo Butter! You RULE!!!
hey brother DAVE YOU are gettin it
"Liberty or death" 🦅
That beginning riff is from West Side Story. The song "America"
I used to use this song to get hyped up before playing hockey. Well, this and others, but yeah it’s great to kinda pump yourself up and get yourself in a competitive mindset where you’re not gonna take shit from nobody and dominate, mentally.
From a band with A LOT of great songs this is such a great f•ckin song!!!! Like 😞….💥🕺🏼🎉🍾🤤
The intro melody is “I want to live in America” from West Side Story.
Metallica has been my favorite band for about 35 years,,,,, but,,,, after hearing Volbeat’s cover about 15 times in 5 days,,,, I think I like theirs better. Love both!
This song 🤘 here is saying to people is don't miss with U.S. 😊 METALLICA ROCK'S
IDC what anyone says this the real national anthem and the tune in the beginning they used is from the musical “west side story”
You should listen to dyers eve or damage inc.
Metallica has been my favorite band since the late 80's. Can't go wrong with any of their songs. Not sure if you will take a look at them, but they are incredible. Aaron O'Keefe is a teacher and the students, ages 4 to 17 play a bunch of different covers. Please check out their cover of Iron Maiden's "Number of the Beast." You won't be disappointed. What it Do my brother, keep up the awesome work.
The Wah peddle in this song reminds me of a snake preparing to strike. Not sure why.
This song was written during the start of the gulf war pretty sure he was in the moment.
A year and a half in the life of Metallica documentary shows them watching the war start.
Spit out the bone by metallica !!!!
The tune at the beginning was America from west side story
When ya don't wanna stomp yer friend, but ya gotta fer everyone's well being...
Just heard Volbeat cover this song for the Blacklist Album and it just kills, next would be Chris Stapleton covering Nothing Else Matters for the album. 2 of the best on there. Rawk on!!
Great song
Best song on this album Dave didn't care for much Metallica after Injustice this song and a few others...🤘🤘
He really enjoys songs off of the Load album.
That’s why the wah pedal he’s using is made by Dunlop and is called the “cry baby”
The wah peddle is like a spice. It just adds a little flavor to the solos. No representation needed
Look up the history of gadsden flag. The yellow one with the rattle snake and you will understand this song way more.
Rattlesnake, one of the most venomous snakes around just react by instinct when they are in danger, also one of the most fierce creature in nature, that is what Hetfield tried to include in this song, "do not mess with peoples freedom".
Yes it is definitely a song about America, the fact that keeping peace sometimes requires conflict, but the ultimate meaning is that don't tread on me = don't threaten individual liberty/freedom and rights, and advocates the defense of such (which is what the rattlesnake from the Gadsden flag represents.)
“What goes into deciding to use a wah pedal?” Kirk: Yes.
This would make a great American National Anthem. 🇺🇸 ✨ 🇺🇸 🎆 🇺🇸 🥧 🌭 🥓 🍻
I believe this song closed out side a of tape of the album...killer way head out on a and into side b.
💗
Kirk is a huge fan of Hendrix. The wah is Kirks calling card and I think his tribute to Jimmy Hendrix.
WhiteSnake.."judgement day"🤘😎
Enjoy good album
I think you're going to have to do Slayer eventually.
WAAAAAAARRRRR !!! Ensemble 🎶
Now do Volbeat’s cover of this song, which was just released about 5 days ago for the Blacklist album
to me its about the gadsden flag and what it meant in the revolutionary war and every war since i mean the snake is on the album cover after all
Please do "Mars Attacks" from the Misfits
Hello friend, I've been loving your reactions friend..idk what good it is to suggest but I've been asking music reactor to please please react to a band Muse..Psyco, Undisclosed Desires and Pressure are my top 3 songs although they have much more..Psycho is a banger and Pressure funk rock. Undisclosed Desires is just an amazing song too! If you're looking for a funky, different rock song then this is the band for you! Muse is next level please give them a try
reacts to Ken Turner in music the rainbow of love he has a very serious voice reacts to him please, success for you
Also Metallica basically used ben Franklins exact words.
This Is Not A TRUMPER song.
The wah is kind of Kirks thing.
I guess time to react Metallica - So what
Oh yeah!
Lol don't do that to him
@Shane Culliton Why?? He'll know it's not a serious song 😂
Si Vis PACA PARABELLUM
This is the sound a rattlesnake makes! You will know what it is!
Love that whining guitar solo there's something about that would that makes me just want to hear it again and again on an endless loop it's like a scared mad threatened cat who happens to be hungry and ready to kill
if you're Hammett, you use wah, end of story
Last good album imo!
Time for so what(crazy lyrics)
FU..Ker's chumps.
they dont teach people anything now adays
Maybe try studying more American history
Worst song on the album, but still like it for the music, not lyrics.
WhiteSnake.."judgement day"🤘😎