Music has a unique way of capturing the essence of complex emotions and themes, and one such intriguing subject is the black widow.
Here, we explore the top 22 songs about black widows, uncovering the stories, meanings, and circumstances behind each track.
Often representing mystery, danger, and allure, black widows have inspired countless musicians across various genres to create memorable songs.
If you’re a music lover with a taste for the dark and enigmatic, this list is for you.
1. “Spider Web” by Joan Osborne (1995)
About this song:
- Album: Relish
- Released: 1995
- Artist: Joan Osborne
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “You just might lose your spider web”
“Spider Web” by Joan Osborne is a track from her 1995 album Relish.
The song uses the imagery of a spider web to explore themes of entanglement and confusion.
Written during a period of introspection, Osborne’s lyrics reflect the complexity of navigating life’s challenges.
The song’s rock genre allows for a dynamic expression of these themes, with Osborne’s powerful vocals driving the message home.
The use of vivid metaphors and the catchy melody make “Spider Web” a memorable song.
2. “Black Widow” by In This Moment (2014)
About this song:
- Album: Black Widow
- Released: 2014
- Artist: In This Moment
- Genre: Metal
- Key Lyric: “You’ll still love me dead or alive”
In This Moment released “Black Widow” in 2014 as the title track of their fifth studio album.
The song portrays the black widow as a symbol of transformation and female empowerment.
Written during a tumultuous period for lead singer Maria Brink, the track reflects themes of rebirth and strength.
Combining heavy metal with electronic elements, the song’s powerful delivery resonates with listeners.
It’s a testament to the band’s ability to blend aggressive sounds with meaningful lyrics.
3. “Among The Brave Ones” by Black Widows (2022)
About this song:
- Album: Among the Brave Ones
- Released: 2022
- Artist: Black Widows
- Genre: Metal
- Key Lyric: “We rise among the brave ones”
Released in 2022, “Among The Brave Ones” by Black Widows is a recent addition to the genre of metal.
The song is a tribute to resilience and courage, using the black widow spider as a metaphor for strength.
Written by the band members during a challenging period, the song reflects their determination to overcome obstacles.
The powerful lyrics and aggressive guitar riffs make it a compelling anthem.
The band’s ability to blend raw emotion with intense musicality has garnered them a dedicated following.
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4. “Black Widow” by Lalo Schifrin (1976)
About this song:
- Album: Black Widow
- Released: 1976
- Artist: Lalo Schifrin
- Genre: Jazz
- Key Lyric: Instrumental
Lalo Schifrin’s “Black Widow,” released in 1976, is a jazz piece that stands out for its instrumental complexity.
The song captures the mysterious and seductive nature of the black widow through intricate melodies and rhythms.
Schifrin composed it during the height of his career, known for blending jazz with various musical styles.
The track’s haunting quality and masterful arrangement make it a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts.
It highlights Schifrin’s skill in evoking emotions without words.
5. “The Widow” by The Mars Volta (2005)
About this song:
- Album: Frances the Mute
- Released: 2005
- Artist: The Mars Volta
- Genre: Metal, MPB, Rock
- Key Lyric: “He’s got fasting black lungs”
“The Widow,” released by The Mars Volta in 2005, is a hauntingly beautiful track that explores themes of loss and despair.
The song uses the imagery of a widow to convey deep emotional pain and longing.
Written during a period of personal turmoil for the band members, the track features their signature blend of progressive rock and Latin influences.
“The Widow” stands out for its emotive vocals and intricate instrumentals, making it a standout track in their discography.
It’s a song that captivates with its depth and intensity.
6. “Black Widow” by Children of Bodom (2011)
About this song:
- Album: Relentless Reckless Forever
- Released: 2011
- Artist: Children of Bodom
- Genre: Metal
- Key Lyric: “Always now, once you know, widow”
Children of Bodom’s “Black Widow,” released in 2011, is a melodic death metal track from their album “Relentless Reckless Forever.”
The song uses the black widow metaphor to explore themes of betrayal and revenge.
Composed during a period of intense touring and recording for the band, it reflects their signature aggressive style.
The fast-paced guitar riffs and growling vocals create a sense of urgency and anger.
It’s a powerful addition to the band’s discography.
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7. “Widow of a Living Man” by Ben Harper (1997)
About this song:
- Album: The Will to Live
- Released: 1997
- Artist: Ben Harper
- Genre: Alternative Rock
- Key Lyric: “I am the widow of a living man”
Ben Harper’s “Widow of a Living Man,” released in 1997, takes a different approach to the theme.
The song is a soulful ballad that explores themes of abandonment and emotional suffering.
Using the metaphor of a widow, Harper paints a poignant picture of a woman left alone despite her partner being alive.
Composed during a prolific period in Harper’s career, the track showcases his ability to blend folk, blues, and soul.
It’s a deeply moving song that resonates with listeners on a personal level.
8. “Black Widow” by Lita Ford (1991)
About this song:
- Album: Dangerous Curves
- Released: 1991
- Artist: Lita Ford
- Genre: Hard Rock
- Key Lyric: “To die for me only. I live just for you”
Lita Ford’s “Black Widow,” released in 1991, is a hard rock song that explores themes of empowerment and revenge.
The black widow metaphor is used to describe a woman who takes control of her destiny.
Composed during a period of rising fame for Ford, the song captures her confident and assertive style.
The powerful guitar riffs and Ford’s commanding vocals create a sense of strength.
It’s a classic track that showcases Ford’s influence on the rock genre.
9. “Black Widow of La Porte” (ft. Jim Root) by John 5 (2007)
About this song:
- Album: The Devil Knows My Name
- Released: 2007
- Artist: John 5 (ft. Jim Root)
- Genre: Metal
- Key Lyric: Instrumental
In 2007, John 5 released “Black Widow of La Porte,” featuring Slipknot guitarist Jim Root.
The instrumental track is a technical masterpiece, blending elements of metal and classical guitar.
The title references Belle Gunness, a notorious serial killer known as the Black Widow of La Porte.
Composed during a period of artistic exploration, the track showcases John 5’s virtuosity and innovative approach to guitar playing.
It’s a hauntingly beautiful piece that captures the dark allure of its namesake.
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10. “Black Widow” (ft. Rita Ora) by Iggy Azalea (2014)
About this song:
- Album: The New Classic
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Iggy Azalea (ft. Rita Ora)
- Genre: Hip Hop
- Key Lyric: “You used to be thirsty for me”
Released in 2014, “Black Widow” by Iggy Azalea featuring Rita Ora became an instant hit.
Written with the help of industry heavyweights like Katy Perry, the song explores themes of love gone wrong, with the black widow symbolizing a toxic relationship.
The catchy beat and powerful lyrics reflect the dangerous allure and deadly finality of such entanglements.
Composed during a time when Iggy’s career was rapidly ascending, the track showcases her ability to blend pop and rap seamlessly.
It remains one of her most memorable singles to date.
11. “Black Widow Spider” by Dr. John (1969)
About this song:
- Album: Babylon
- Released: 1969
- Artist: Dr. John
- Genre: Blues Rock
- Key Lyric: “She began to spin a web all around me”
Dr. John’s “Black Widow Spider,” released in 1969, is a classic example of his unique blend of New Orleans blues and funk.
The song uses the black widow as a metaphor for treacherous love and the dangers lurking beneath the surface.
Composed during a period of creative experimentation, the track features Dr. John’s signature piano playing and raspy vocals.
“Black Widow Spider” stands out for its infectious groove and vivid imagery, making it a timeless piece in his discography.
It’s a song that captures the essence of Dr. John’s musical genius.
12. “Black Widow” by Deidre Thornell (2023)
About this song:
- Album: (Single)
- Released: 2023
- Artist: Deidre Thornell
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “Undercover like her reputation”
Deidre Thornell’s 2023 release “Black Widow” brings a country twist to the theme.
The song explores themes of betrayal and heartbreak, with the black widow symbolizing a deceptive lover.
Written during a time of personal reflection, the track features Thornell’s emotive vocals and storytelling prowess.
“Black Widow” stands out for its relatable lyrics and catchy melody, making it a compelling addition to her body of work.
It’s a song that resonates deeply with listeners, capturing the essence of country music’s emotional depth.
13. “Black Widow” by Ancient Days (2020)
About this song:
- Album: Black Magic Nights
- Released: 2020
- Artist: Ancient Days
- Genre: Alternative Rock
- Key Lyric: “She’s crawling up her web”
In 2020, Ancient Days released “Black Widow” as part of their “Devil’s Night” album.
The song blends gothic rock with elements of metal, creating a dark and atmospheric soundscape.
Using the black widow spider as a symbol of fatal attraction, the track delves into the darker aspects of love and loss.
Composed during a period of artistic reinvention, “Black Widow” highlights the band’s ability to create hauntingly beautiful music.
It’s a track that captivates with its depth and intensity.
14. “The Black Widow” by Alice Cooper (1977)
About this song:
- Album: The Alice Cooper Show
- Released: 1975
- Artist: Alice Cooper
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “These words he speaks are true”
In 1977, Alice Cooper released “The Black Widow,” a theatrical rock anthem that captures the essence of his shock-rock persona.
The song features a spoken-word introduction by iconic horror actor Vincent Price, adding to its eerie ambiance.
Using the black widow as a metaphor for danger and seduction, Cooper weaves a tale of intrigue and peril.
The track was part of the album “Welcome to My Nightmare,” marking a significant point in his career as he ventured into more elaborate stage productions.
It remains a classic example of Cooper’s ability to blend rock with horror elements.
15. “Black Widow” by Arcy Drive (2022)
About this song:
- Album: Attic Sessions
- Released: 2022
- Artist: Arcy Drive
- Genre: Indie Rock
- Key Lyric: “Im caught in your web”
Arcy Drive’s 2022 release “Black Widow” brings a modern rock twist to the theme.
The song explores the complexities of trust and deception, using the black widow as a central metaphor.
Written during a time of creative exploration for the band, the track features catchy hooks and introspective lyrics.
Arcy Drive’s fresh sound and relatable themes make “Black Widow” a compelling listen.
It’s a song that resonates with listeners on multiple levels, showcasing the band’s evolving artistry.
16. “Black Widow’s Web” (feat. Sandy & Alissa White-Gluz) by Angra (2018)
About this song:
- Album: ØMNI
- Released: 2018
- Artist: Angra (feat. Sandy & Alissa White-Gluz)
- Genre: Metal
- Key Lyric: “Black widow spider’s on the wall”
Angra’s 2018 track “Black Widow’s Web,” featuring Sandy and Alissa White-Gluz, is a powerful metal anthem.
The song uses the black widow as a symbol for entrapment and manipulation, reflective of its intense lyrical themes.
Composed during a period of creative resurgence for the band, the track features dynamic vocals and intricate instrumentation.
“Black Widow’s Web” stands out for its collaboration between different vocal styles, creating a rich and layered sound.
It’s a track that showcases Angra’s ability to blend melody with intensity.
17. “Black Widow Blues” by Townes Van Zandt (2003)
About this song:
- Album: In the Beginning
- Released: 2003
- Artist: Townes Van Zandt
- Genre: Blues
- Key Lyric: “Lovin’ gonna make you mine”
Townes Van Zandt’s “Black Widow Blues,” released posthumously in 2003, is a poignant studio demo from 1966.
The song is a soulful ballad that explores themes of loneliness and despair, using the black widow as a central metaphor.
Composed during Van Zandt’s early years, the track showcases his lyrical genius and emotive voice.
“Black Widow Blues” stands out for its simplicity and depth, making it a timeless piece in his discography.
It’s a song that resonates with listeners on an emotional level, capturing the essence of Van Zandt’s artistry.
18. “Black Widow” by Judith Hill (2024)
About this song:
- Album: Letters From A Black Widow
- Released: 2024
- Artist: Judith Hill
- Genre: Soul
- Key Lyric: “Black widow, that’s not my name”
Judith Hill’s “Black Widow,” set for release in 2024, promises to be a soulful exploration of complex emotions.
Known for her rich, emotive voice, Hill uses the black widow as a symbol for powerful and often destructive relationships.
The song was composed during a period of personal reflection for Hill, allowing her to channel her experiences into the music.
With its intricate melodies and heartfelt lyrics, “Black Widow” is expected to resonate deeply with listeners.
Hill’s background in both gospel and pop influences this track, making it a standout in her discography.
19. “Black Widow” by Mötley Crüe (2004)
About this song:
- Album: Music to Crash Your Car To: Vol. 2
- Released: 2004
- Artist: Mötley Crüe
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “To the black widow”
In 2004, Mötley Crüe released “Black Widow,” a hard-hitting track that exemplifies their signature glam metal sound.
The song dives into themes of betrayal and vengeance, with the black widow representing a femme fatale figure.
Composed during a turbulent time for the band, the song reflects their raw energy and rebellious spirit.
The powerful vocals and electrifying guitar solos make it a standout track in their discography.
It’s a quintessential Mötley Crüe song that captures the band’s essence and the allure of the black widow myth.
20. “Black Widow Spider” by Parquet Courts (2021)
About this song:
- Album: Sympathy for Life
- Released: 2021
- Artist: Parquet Courts
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Eyes on my every move. Black widow spider”
Parquet Courts brought a fresh perspective to the concept of the black widow with their 2021 release “Black Widow Spider.”
The song combines post-punk energy with introspective lyrics, creating an engaging listening experience.
Written during the pandemic, the song reflects themes of isolation and entrapment, using the black widow spider as a metaphor.
The band’s characteristic raw sound and thoughtful composition shine through, making it a notable entry in their catalog.
It’s a track that captures the zeitgeist of its time while remaining timeless in its appeal.
21. “Black Widow” by Bruce Dickinson, Adrian Smith (1999)
About this song:
- Album: Humanary Stew: A Tribute to Alice Cooper
- Released: 1999
- Artist: Bruce Dickinson, Adrian Smith
- Genre: Metal
- Key Lyric: “Our minds will be destroyed”
Bruce Dickinson and Adrian Smith of Iron Maiden fame collaborated on “Black Widow” in 1999. This heavy metal track is steeped in dark imagery and powerful guitar riffs. The song uses the black widow as a symbol for fatal attraction and the dangers lurking beneath beauty.
Composed during their time with the band, the track showcases their signature style of blending storytelling with intense musicality. “Black Widow” stands out for its haunting lyrics and dynamic instrumentation, capturing the essence of the legendary musicians.
22. “Black Widow” by Macky Gee (2015)
About this song:
- Album: Liondub Street Series, Vol. 11: Black Widow
- Released: 2015
- Artist: Macky Gee
- Genre: Drum and Bass
- Key Lyric: “I’m gonna love ya, until you hate me”
Macky Gee’s 2015 track “Black Widow” brings a drum and bass twist to the theme.
The song is an energetic and fast-paced piece that uses the black widow spider as a metaphor for danger and excitement.
Composed during a prolific period in Macky Gee’s career, the track features his signature bass lines and catchy hooks.
“Black Widow” stands out for its infectious energy and danceable rhythm, making it a favorite in the drum and bass community.
It’s a track that captivates with its intensity and drive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the songs about black widows has been explored in various musical genres over the years.
From blues to metal, each song brings a unique perspective on the themes of danger, manipulation, and complexity.
Whether used as a metaphor or a literal reference, these songs showcase the enduring allure and intrigue of black widows in popular culture.
As artists continue to find inspiration in this powerful symbol, we can expect more hauntingly beautiful and intense tracks to be added to this collection.
So keep an eye out for future releases that may just feature the infamous black widow spider.