4 Rock Lyrics From 1970 That Give Me Instant Goosebumps Every Time

The writer picks four rock lyrics from 1970 that still give them goosebumps, arguing that words can carry as much emotional force as the music around them. The songs address political responsibility, empathy, intimacy and mental vulnerability, showing how differently listeners can be moved by lyrics.

The choices are Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs”, which condemns leaders who send poorer people to fight; Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s “Ohio”, written in the aftermath of the Kent State shootings; The Beatles’ “Two of Us”, whose lyrics Paul McCartney wrote about his first wife, Linda; and Pink Floyd’s “If”, which reflects on fear and mental health. The article highlights specific lines from each song as the source of their lasting emotional impact.