Back in 1975, Alice Cooper released a song called “Only Women Bleed”
“Alice Cooper’s Only Women Bleed is a poignant ballad from his 1975 album Welcome to My Nightmare, marking a departure from his usual shock rock style. The song achieved considerable success, reaching number 1 on the Canadian RPM national singles chart and number 12 on the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart in the same year. It was the first among several ballads by Cooper to gain significant chart success, reflecting its broad appeal and emotional depth.
The song delves into the theme of women’s suffering within abusive relationships, exploring the physical and emotional pain inflicted by unappreciative and oppressive partners. Despite its seemingly direct title, the song’s meaning extends beyond physical abuse to encompass the broader struggles and injustices faced by women. This interpretation is supported by the lyrics, which vividly depict the toll of such relationships on women’s well-being.
Misinterpretations have arisen, possibly due to Cooper’s theatrical stage persona, leading some to initially perceive the song as misogynistic. However, a closer look at the lyrics reveals a clear condemnation of the male power structure and sympathy for the plight of women. The song’s title and content have sparked discussions, with some interpreting the title both literally, as referring to physical harm, and figuratively, pointing to the unique burdens women bear in abusive relationships.
Only Women Bleed stands out in Cooper’s discography not only for its commercial success but also for its emotional resonance and social commentary, making it a significant work in the realm of rock music and beyond.”
