Warm Up with These 16 Songs about Hell

Songs about Hell have been a popular theme in music for decades, with many artists using the concept of hell as a metaphor for various life experiences. Whether it’s rock, country, pop, or blues, the idea of hell has been used to explore themes of temptation, rebellion, punishment, and redemption.

From classic rock anthems like “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC to country ballads like “If You’re Going Through Hell” by Rodney Atkins, and from blues songs like “Hellhound On My Trail” by Robert Johnson to pop songs like “Good as Hell” by Lizzo, the theme of hell has been a fertile ground for musical exploration.

Many songs about hell explore the idea of punishment for bad behavior, as well as the hope for redemption and salvation. Some songs depict the devil as a tempter or a seducer, while others use the concept of hell as a metaphor for difficult life situations or personal struggles.

Regardless of the approach, songs about hell often tap into deep-seated human fears and desires, providing a cathartic release for listeners. Whether you’re a believer or not, songs about hell have the power to provoke thought, inspire introspection, and evoke strong emotions.

1. In Hell I’ll Be in Good Company – The Dead South

“In Hell I’ll Be in Good Company” is a folk-bluegrass song by Canadian band The Dead South, known for their unique blend of traditional and modern styles. The song features a catchy banjo riff, upbeat tempo, and soulful harmonies that complement the dark lyrics, which speak of a man’s journey to the afterlife and his search for redemption. The lyrics paint a picture of a life of sin and the consequences of one’s actions, yet the refrain suggests that even in the afterlife, there may be comfort and companionship. The song’s energetic and playful vibe makes it a popular choice for live performances, and its popularity has only increased since its release in 2014.

2. All the Good Girls Go to Hell – Billie Eilish

“All the Good Girls Go to Hell” is an alternative-pop song by American singer-songwriter Billie Eilish. The song features a haunting melody, sparse instrumentation, and introspective lyrics that explore themes of temptation, sin, and moral decay. The song’s lyrics speak of the devil’s influence on good people and the consequences of one’s actions, with Eilish questioning whether anyone can truly be saved. The song’s dark and moody atmosphere is heightened by its music video, which features Eilish as a fallen angel, surrounded by flames and demons. The song’s message has resonated with fans, who have praised its honesty and vulnerability. “All the Good Girls Go to Hell” is a standout track from Eilish’s critically acclaimed debut album “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” and has cemented her status as one of the most innovative and compelling artists of her generation.

3. Highway to Hell – AC/DC

“Highway to Hell” is a hard rock song by the Australian band AC/DC, released in 1979. The song’s signature riff and catchy chorus make it one of the band’s most recognizable and enduring hits. The lyrics speak of a life on the road and the struggles and temptations that come with it, with the highway serving as a metaphor for the journey to hell. Despite its dark subject matter, the song’s upbeat tempo and energetic performance make it a staple of rock radio and a fan favorite. “Highway to Hell” has become an anthem for rebellious youth and a testament to the enduring power of rock music.

4. Sympathy for the Devil – The Rolling Stones

“Sympathy for the Devil” is a classic rock song by British band The Rolling Stones, released in 1968. The song’s hypnotic rhythm, intricate percussion, and provocative lyrics make it one of the band’s most celebrated and controversial tracks. The song presents the devil as a charismatic figure who has witnessed and influenced some of the darkest moments in human history. The lyrics reference events such as the Russian Revolution and the assassination of John F. Kennedy, and the song has been interpreted as a commentary on the nature of evil and the role of the devil in human affairs. Despite its controversial subject matter, the song’s musical sophistication and Mick Jagger’s commanding performance have made it a staple of classic rock radio and a cultural touchstone. “Sympathy for the Devil” remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most enduring and influential songs.

5. Raising Hell – Kesha ft. Big Freedia

“Raising Hell” is an electro-pop song by American singer-songwriter Kesha, featuring rapper Big Freedia. The song was released in 2019 and serves as the lead single for Kesha’s fourth studio album “High Road”. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and playful lyrics make it a fun and energetic party anthem. The song’s music video features Kesha as a televangelist who gets into trouble with the law and stages a wild party to redeem herself. “Raising Hell” showcases Kesha’s signature blend of irreverent humor, pop hooks, and empowering messages, and has been praised for its infectious energy and positive vibes.

6. Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers – ZZ Top

“Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers” is a blues-rock song by American band ZZ Top, released in 1973. The song’s driving beat, gritty guitar riffs, and straightforward lyrics make it a classic example of the band’s hard-edged, Southern rock sound. The lyrics speak of the joys of drinking, partying, and living life to the fullest, with a devil-may-care attitude that epitomizes the rock and roll lifestyle. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious groove have made it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio. “Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers” showcases ZZ Top’s unique blend of blues, rock, and Texas swagger, and has cemented the band’s place in the pantheon of American rock icons.

7. Heaven and Hell – Black Sabbath

“Heaven and Hell” is a heavy metal song by British band Black Sabbath, released in 1980. The song marked the band’s first album with new lead singer Ronnie James Dio, and showcased a new, more melodic and sophisticated sound. The song’s epic, operatic arrangement, and Dio’s powerful vocals make it a classic of the genre. The lyrics speak of the duality of good and evil and the search for meaning and purpose in life. The song’s soaring chorus and intricate guitar work have made it a fan favorite and a testament to the enduring legacy of Black Sabbath as pioneers of heavy metal.

8. If You’re Going Through Hell (Before the Devil Even Knows) – Rodney Atkins

“If You’re Going Through Hell (Before the Devil Even Knows)” is a country song by American singer Rodney Atkins, released in 2006. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and empowering message make it a feel-good anthem for anyone going through tough times. The lyrics speak of the importance of perseverance, faith, and positivity in the face of adversity, with the devil serving as a metaphor for life’s challenges. The song’s radio-friendly production and Atkins’ emotive vocals have made it a commercial success and a fan favorite. “If You’re Going Through Hell” showcases Atkins’ talent for crafting uplifting, inspirational country songs and has become a staple of the modern country music canon.

9. Hell – James Brown

“Hell” is a funk/soul song by American singer James Brown, released in 1974. The song’s groovy bassline, funky horns, and Brown’s iconic vocals make it a classic example of his signature sound. The lyrics speak of the chaos and turmoil of modern society and the need for love and understanding to overcome it. Brown’s intense performance and impassioned delivery have made it a fan favorite and a testament to his enduring influence on popular music. “Hell” showcases Brown’s unparalleled talent for combining social commentary, political activism, and infectious rhythms, and has become a staple of funk and soul playlists worldwide.

10. I’ll Fight Hell to Hold You – Kiss

“I’ll Fight Hell to Hold You” is a hard rock song by American band Kiss, released in 1987. The song’s driving guitar riffs, bombastic drums, and soaring vocals make it a classic example of the band’s theatrical and bombastic sound. The lyrics speak of the lengths one will go to hold onto love, with hell serving as a metaphor for the obstacles and challenges that must be overcome. The song’s anthemic chorus and catchy hooks have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Kiss’ live shows. “I’ll Fight Hell to Hold You” showcases the band’s talent for crafting epic, larger-than-life rock songs that combine high-energy performances with memorable melodies.

11. Run Like Hell – Pink Floyd

“Run Like Hell” is a progressive rock song by British band Pink Floyd, released in 1979. The song’s driving rhythm, pulsing synth lines, and David Gilmour’s searing guitar work make it a classic example of the band’s signature sound. The lyrics speak of fear and paranoia in the face of an unspecified threat, urging the listener to flee and escape. The song’s epic arrangement and dramatic tension-building have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Pink Floyd’s live shows. “Run Like Hell” showcases the band’s talent for creating immersive sonic landscapes that combine powerful instrumentation with conceptual storytelling.

12. Good as Hell – Lizzo

“Good as Hell” is a pop/R&B song by American singer Lizzo, released in 2016. The song’s infectious beat, catchy hooks, and Lizzo’s powerful vocals make it a feel-good anthem for self-love and empowerment. The lyrics speak of moving on from a bad relationship and embracing one’s own strength and resilience. The song’s upbeat production and Lizzo’s message of positivity and self-confidence have made it a commercial success and a fan favorite. “Good as Hell” showcases Lizzo’s talent for crafting uplifting, empowering pop songs that celebrate individuality and self-expression.

13. Gives You Hell – The All-American Rejects

“Gives You Hell” is a pop/rock song by American band The All-American Rejects, released in 2008. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and driving guitars make it a classic example of the band’s signature sound. The lyrics speak of moving on from a toxic relationship and finding happiness and success, while wishing ill upon the former partner. The song’s anthemic chorus and relatable lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a commercial success. “Gives You Hell” showcases The All-American Rejects’ talent for crafting infectious, radio-friendly pop/rock songs with relatable themes.

14. Hell on Heels – Pistol Annies

Hell on Heels” is a country song by American supergroup Pistol Annies, released in 2011. The song’s twangy guitar riffs, lush harmonies, and sassy lyrics make it a classic example of the group’s signature sound. The lyrics speak of the three members of the group portraying themselves as confident, independent women with attitude and style. The song’s playful lyrics and catchy melody have made it a fan favorite and a commercial success. “Hell on Heels” showcases Pistol Annies’ talent for crafting traditional, yet fresh country songs with a modern, feminist twist.

15. Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound – Hank Williams Jr.

“Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound” is a country song by American singer-songwriter Hank Williams Jr., released in 1979. The song’s hard-driving rhythm, twangy guitars, and Williams Jr.’s signature drawl make it a classic example of his outlaw country sound. The lyrics speak of the singer’s hard-partying lifestyle and love of whiskey, while acknowledging the consequences of his actions. The song’s raw energy and rebellious spirit have made it a fan favorite and a commercial success. “Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound” showcases Hank Williams Jr.’s talent for crafting rowdy, unapologetic country anthems with a rock edge.

16. Bat Out of Hell – Meat Loaf

“Bat Out of Hell” is a rock song by American singer Meat Loaf, released in 1977. The song’s bombastic arrangement, operatic vocals, and dramatic storytelling make it a classic example of Meat Loaf’s theatrical rock sound. The lyrics speak of a motorcycle rider’s desperate escape from a hellish landscape, complete with allusions to classical literature and Gothic horror. The song’s epic scope and emotional intensity have made it a fan favorite and a commercial success. “Bat Out of Hell” showcases Meat Loaf’s talent for crafting ambitious, genre-defying rock songs that combine elements of opera, theater, and storytelling.