Heathens – twenty one pilots (from Suicide Squad: The Album)
Background and Release
“Heathens” by twenty one pilots was released in June 2016 as part of the soundtrack for the film Suicide Squad. The song served as the lead single from the soundtrack album, and its release was highly anticipated by both fans of the band and movie enthusiasts alike. Known for their genre-blending sound and introspective lyrics, twenty one pilots brought their unique style to the soundtrack, contributing to the dark and edgy atmosphere of Suicide Squad.
Musical Style and Composition
Musically, “Heathens” blends elements of alternative rock, electropop, and hip hop, which are characteristic of twenty one pilots’ eclectic sound. The song features haunting melodies, layered with electronic beats and Tyler Joseph’s distinctive vocal delivery. The music creates a moody and atmospheric vibe that complements the themes explored in the song.
Themes and Lyrics
“Heathens” delves into themes of isolation, outsiderhood, and grappling with societal expectations. The lyrics explore the experience of feeling marginalized or misunderstood, echoing the struggles faced by individuals who feel like societal “outsiders” or “heathens”. The chorus captures this sentiment with the line “All my friends are heathens, take it slow,” emphasizing a sense of solidarity among those who feel different or on the fringes.
Music Video and Visual Representation
The official music video for “Heathens” features imagery and scenes inspired by Suicide Squad. Directed by Andrew Donoho and Tyler Joseph, the video intertwines footage from the film with clips of twenty one pilots performing in an eerie, institutional setting. The visuals reflect the song’s themes of confinement and rebellion, offering a visual narrative that complements the emotional intensity of the music.
Impact and Reception
“Heathens” was met with critical acclaim upon its release, praised for its atmospheric production, thought-provoking lyrics, and relevance to the themes of Suicide Squad. The song reached the top of various charts globally, including the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying twenty one pilots’ mainstream success. Its inclusion in the soundtrack helped introduce the band to a broader audience while also resonating deeply with their existing fanbase.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its commercial success, “Heathens” became a cultural phenomenon, particularly among fans of both twenty one pilots and Suicide Squad. The song’s introspective lyrics and evocative music video sparked discussions about mental health, identity, and societal expectations, resonating with listeners who connected with its themes of alienation and resilience.
Legacy
“Heathens” remains a significant part of twenty one pilots’ discography, showcasing their ability to blend introspective lyrics with catchy melodies and innovative production. The song’s enduring popularity has solidified its place as a fan favorite and a staple in the band’s live performances. Its impact extends beyond the music itself, influencing discussions about mental health and societal norms among listeners and fans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Heathens” by twenty one pilots stands out not only as a standout track from the Suicide Squad soundtrack but also as a powerful exploration of identity and outsiderhood. The song’s atmospheric sound, introspective lyrics, and visually striking music video have contributed to its enduring popularity and cultural significance. As twenty one pilots continues to evolve their sound and explore new themes, “Heathens” remains a poignant reminder of their ability to connect with listeners through music that is both introspective and universally resonant.
All my friends are heathens, take it slow
Wait for them to ask you who you know
Please don’t make any sudden moves
You don’t know the half of the abuse
All my friends are heathens, take it slow
Wait for them to ask you who you know
Please don’t make any sudden moves
You don’t know the half of the abuse
Welcome to the room of people
Who have rooms of people that they loved one day
Docked away
Just because we check the guns at the door
Doesn’t mean our brains will change from hand grenades
You’ll never know the psychopath sitting next to you
You’ll never know the murderer sitting next to you
You’ll think, “How’d I get here, sitting next to you?”
But after all I’ve said, please don’t forget
All my friends are heathens, take it slow
Wait for them to ask you who you know
Please don’t make any sudden moves
You don’t know the half of the abuse
We don’t deal with outsiders very well
They say newcomers have a certain smell
You have trust issues, not to mention
They say they can smell your intentions
You’ll never know the freak show sitting next to you
You’ll have some weird people sitting next to you
You’ll think “How did I get here, sitting next to you?”
But after all I’ve said, please don’t forget
All my friends are heathens, take it slow
Wait for them to ask you who you know
Please don’t make any sudden moves
You don’t know the half of the abuse
All my friends are heathens, take it slow (watch it)
Wait for them to ask you who you know (watch it)
Please all my friends are heathens, take it slow (watch it)
Wait for them to ask you who you know
Why’d you come? You knew you should have stayed
I tried to warn you just to stay away
And now they’re outside ready to bust
It looks like you might be one of us