Deadly Songs Unlikely to Leave You Literally Dead (Vol. 2) | Playlist 🎧

Deadly Songs Unlikely to Leave You Literally Dead (Vol. 2) features Alicia Keys, The Black Dahlia Murder, Hayley Williams, Luke Bryan & Powfu.

DEADLY SONGS UNLIKELY TO LEAVE YOU LITERALLY DEAD (VOL. 2) arrives as the long-waited – or long procrastinated upon – follow up to 11 Deadly Songs Unlikely to Leave You Literally Dead (Vol. 1).  The premise of the original and more current list? Basically, it’s a compilation of songs that have some form of the word ‘dead’ in their song title. 11 Deadly Songs Unlikely to Leave You Literally Dead (Vol. 1) featured some truly dead musical selections courtesy of Panic! At the Disco (“Death of a Bachelor”), Rich the Kid (“Dead Friends”), and Sam Hunt (“Downtown’s Dead”) among others.  For Deadly Songs Unlikely to Leave You Literally Dead (Vol. 2), the cast changes.  Music arrives from the likes of Alicia Keys, The Black Dahlia Murder, Hayley Williams, Luke Bryan and Powfu among others.

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1. Powfu, “death bed”

Ft. beabadoobee

Poems of the past (EP) • Columbia / Robots and Humans • 2020

Canadian rapper and singer Powfu (Isaiah Faber) raps about his “death bed” (Poems of the past (EP)), getting a mighty assist from indie-pop singer/songwriter, beabadoobee. Beabadoobee plays a big role on “death bed,” thanks to a sample of her song, “Coffee”, fueling the fire.  Even so, Otterpop does a nice job producing this chill yet potent and thoughtful record. A beautiful, but sad song, Faber raps as a dying protagonist, whose girlfriend ultimately must continue living and move beyond the grief once he’s passed away.  It’s an unorthodox hit, mind you, but personally, it’s a song that once you hear it, you just can’t let it go – easily among the crème de la crème of 2020.

Powfu rides the beat easily, seemingly never breaking a sweat.  He reflects on love, life, and God.  “I been praying for forgiveness, you’ve been praying for my health,” he raps on the first verse, continuing, “When I leave this earth, hopin’ you’ll find someone else…”  The second verse is shorter but offers much of the same. He’s so happy she’s with him, he recollects the memories, but also, on a sad note, tells her, “Soon you’ll be alone, sorry that you have to lose me.” Of course, the centerpiece is the chorus, with beabadoobee doing work.  Of course, Powfu joins her in certain instances.  The mix is quite pleasant.

“Don’t stay awake for too long, don’t go to bed
I’ll make a cup of coffee for your head
It’ll get you up and going out of bed.”

All in all, Powfu delivers a sweet gem with “death bed.” He’s poetic, reflective, and incredibly thoughtful.  The authenticity and sincerity may be the biggest selling point of this record.

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2. Alicia Keys, “Perfect Way to Die”

Alicia • RCA • 2020

Despite the fact that her seventh studio album, Alicia, was pushed back, Alicia Keys from released numerous singles, nonetheless. The songs that Keys released in 2020 have been very woke to what’s happening socially and politically in 2020, including “Perfect Way to Die”. “Perfect Way to Die” captures the racial inequality and police brutality that has dominated the headlines. On this piano/strings ballad, Keys tugs at the heartstrings as she depicts incidents where innocent black lives were lost.  “Simple walk to the corner store,” she sings on the first verse, continuing, “Mama never thought she would be gettin’ a call from the coroner / Said her son’s been gunned down.”  The second verse is similar, this time with a girl being the victim – the martyr if you will.  Of course, the centerpiece is the chorus, where “the perfect way to die” comes into play.  There is no perfect way to die, but in a sense, it seems Keys is trying to find the positive that can come from such tragedy, including necessary change.

Musically, Keys begins singing lower, eventually ascending into her powerful upper register as the song progresses.  She’s definitely high on the bridge, where the devastation of “Another dream lost / Another king and queen lost / Another broken promise they refuse to make right” is definitely felt. Interestingly, she descends back into her lower register on the final chorus, adding to the somber nature.  Also, she doesn’t complete the final line – another stellar touch. “Perfect Way to Die” is upsetting, but it’s an upsetting song that needs to happen.  Again, Keys is woke to the events plaguing the world, particularly black men and women.  That’s the most important takeaway.

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3. Ibeyi, “Deathless”

Ft. Kamasi Washington

Ash • XL • 2017

French-Cuban Twin Duo Ibeyi shine on “Deathless”, a standout from their sophomore album, Ash. “Deathless” gets off to quick start, thanks to alluring synths and the distinct percussive groove. The international influence that made Ibeyi as a whole intriguing, returns on “Deathless.” Even so, there’s a freshness about this track that has the swagger of R&B and pop music.  The eclectic sound makes this record one of a kind – among the more distinct of 2017.

The vocals are absolutely stunning, particularly harmonized moments.  In addition to the harmonies, the detail paid to each and every lyric – specific syllables – makes this a next-level performance.  Following superb vocals and clearly lyrics on the verses, the chorus is exceptional.  It’s catchy, latching the first time you hear it.  The assertive, proclamatory vibe ‘gives life’:

“Whatever happens, whatever happened (Oh, hey)
We are deathless!
We are deathless!”

“Deathless” gets even better, thanks to contributions by one of the hottest jazz musicians of modern times, saxophonist Kamasi Washington.  His exquisite tone and thoughtful ad libs only accentuate the greatness served up by Ibeyi.

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4. The Black Dahlia Murder, “How Very Dead”

Verminous • Metal Blade • 2020

Death metal collective The Black Dahlia Murder formed back in 2001.  Sure, there have been some lineup changes beyond mainstays Trevor Strnad and Brian Eschbach, but hey, when a band approaches two decades of existence, that’s pretty special. Verminous, marks their ninth studio LP.  Verminous, the first The Black Dahlia Murder album of a new decade, arrives two-and-a-half years after the band’s last LP, Nightbringers (2017).  Verminous proves to be worth the wait. Earning the album representation on this playlist is “How Very Dead” – what a morbid song title!

Honestly, “How Very Dead” reveals its cards with its literal title.  Lyrically, The Black Dahlia are explicit in, well, death.  It’s over the top, but that’s the glory of metal, right? We’re absolutely screwed by the doctor on this record: “My overlooked credentials / A Hippocratic oath I’d sworn in hell.” Those lyrics definitely capture just ‘how very dead’ the victims will be, even if the point is made, “How very dead you were from the start.” Outlandish, but certainly intriguing.

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5. Hayley Williams, “Dead Horse”

Petals for Armor • Atlantic • 2020

With the release of Petals for Armor, Hayley Williams made history. How so? Per Loudwire, Williams became “the first female to top the Billboard Top Rock Albums chart as both a solo artist and a member of a band.” That’s awesome, as is the album that earned her such honors.  Honestly, I wish more folks had checked out Williams’ solo debut – it’s pretty flipping amazing. Out of 15 total songs, I dare you to find a bad one on Petals for Armor. Williams delivers a truly accomplished solo debut that lacks any glaring miscues.  The songwriting is personal, the production is clever, refined, and well-rounded, and the vocals are spot-on. There is no shortage of gems including the deadly song at hand, “Dead Horse.” Poor equine!

“I beat it like a dead horse, I beat it like a drum / Oh, I stayed with you too long / Skipping like a record, but I sang along / To a silly little song /… A shitty never-ending song…” “Dead Horse” commences the second disc of  Petals for Armor with a bang, referencing William’s divorce. The listener is blessed with ear catching production.  The tone of the guitar, robustness of the bass, and the drum groove are utterly sublime.  Not so deadly at all! The aforementioned chorus is quite catchy, with Williams showcasing ample personality, understandable given the personal nature of the track.

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6. Tyler Glenn, “Sudden Death (OMG)”

Excommunication • Island • 2016

Neon Trees front man Tyler Glenn introduced himself to the world as a solo artist with his debut album, Excommunication. Excommunication was one of the more intriguing efforts of 2016, depicting Glenn’s exit from the LDS church (he identifies it as a “faith crisis”). He wasn’t excommunicated, but being openly gay, the Mormon church isn’t known for openness regarding the LGBTQ+ community. Over its course, Glenn takes aim and the judgmental and how his perception of religion has shifted because of it.  The song that’s pertinent to this list? Why, that would be opener “Sudden Death (OMG),” which fittingly initiates Excommunication.

From the jump on “Sudden Death (OMG),” Tyler Glenn is taken aback – sort of shell-shocked – by the course of how his faith has changed: “God / I never asked to fall from grace.” He goes on to include others’ opinions (“a little crazy”).  He sums up the life-changing experience on the chorus, likening his new life – the state of confusion and apathy – as sudden death.  He’s chosen a ‘sinful path’ from the church’s perspective, and although the “wages of sin is death”, he continues to live.

“Oh my God
Catch me I’m starting to fall
I don’t know what all this is for
Keep coming at me with your disrespect
You went and started a war
Now I don’t care anymore
I keep on living like it’s sudden death...”

“Sudden Death” is exceptionally well produced, set in a minor key, and sets the tone for Excommunication. It previously concluded OMG! 11 Totally Oh My God Songs.

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7. Billie Eilish, “No Time to Die”

“No Time to Die” • Darkroom / Interscope • 2020

Things don’t seem to be slowing down for Grammy-winning alternative pop star Billie Eilish in 2020. In 2019, she had a breakout, once-in-a-lifetime album with WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?.  Unsurprisingly, in 2020, she racked up the Grammys, sweeping the big four categories of Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist.  Post-Grammy domination, and post high-profile Academy Awards in memoriam performance, she returned with “No Time to Die”, which appears in the 007 film, No Time to Die.

As always, “No Time to Die” is co-written by Billie Eilish and FINNEAS, who also produces alongside Stephen Lipson.  The sound is a nice balance between that signature Eilish sound we’ve come to love – more understated, yet always chilling and haunting – and the dramatic, dark nature of the music appearing in the James Bond films.  For most of the song, the listener is mesmerized by the soft yet potent nature of Eilish’s instrument, with ample lyrical expressiveness.  But, even the oft-understated teen rises to the occasion, pushing her voice and singing dynamically to match the soaring nature of the music.  Of course, this moment occurs on the chorus.

Eilish continues to be the gift that keeps giving. “No Time to Die” has the makings of another potential Academy Award winning James Bond song.  Think about what Bond has done for Adele and Sam Smith – just saying.  This is a well-written, well-performed, truly gorgeous ballad that plays to her strengths. Fancy tickled by this gem ranking among the crème de la crème of 2020.

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8. 2 Chainz, “Dead Man Walking”

Ft. Future

“Dead Man Walking” • Def Jam • 2020

2 Chainz is pretty adept when it comes to dropping bangers.  Of course, the Grammy-nominated rapper is also known for his ridiculous, humorous, and sometimes, cringe AF rhymes.  On the brief banger “Dead Man Walking”, Tauheed Epps enlists Grammy-winning rapper Future for the assist.  Safe to say, the confidence and the drip are through the roof on this deadly joint.

Lots of things help make “Dead Man Walking” a kick ass banger.  It starts with the hard-nosed production work, courtesy of Buddah Bless.  This is perfect fuel for 2 Chainz’s fire, on the intro (which lifts from the eventual chorus), and on the verse.  On the verse, the rapper is ‘on top of the word,’ as he makes threats (“You and your homie are the same target / Put you both in the same coffin”), touts his money (“Richard Mille, six figures”), along with some head shakable lines – “I’m showin’ growth, had to dreadlock it.” As for Future, he’s definitely true to self.  Sex (“Push up on ya exotic”), drugs (“I put codeine in my body”), and money (“Richard Mille coast a Bugatti”).  Would you expect any less?   The best moment, of course, is the chorus, in all its repetitive glory by Chainz:

“I see dead men walking
I see dead men walking...”

Yeah, that’s honestly about the size of it. The pendulum isn’t moved on “Dead Men Walking,” but, it’s an enjoyable, head-nodder.  Does Budda Bless that beat? HELL YEAH he does!

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9. Sam Smith, “To Die For”

“To Die For” • Capitol • 2020

Grammy-winning pop musician Sam Smith has gone through some big changes.  Between releasing The Thrill of it All (2017), and announcing and delaying their third studio album, the openly gay Smith began identifying as non-binary, using the pronouns they and them: “I’ve decided I am changing my pronouns to THEY/THEM after a lifetime of being at war with my gender I’ve decided to embrace myself for who I am, inside and out.” The song at hand, 🎵 “To Die For” appears on their long-delayed third studio album, 💿 Love Goes.  It’s a perfect fit for Deadly Songs Unlikely to Leave You Literally Dead (Vol. 2). 

As with most Sam Smith songs, there are ample selling points.  First and foremost, on “To Die For,” their voice sounds magical.  They spoil us with rich, robust falsetto.  Throughout this pop ballad, Smith sounds expressive, even with vocal effects added to the mix.  Beyond the voice, Stargate (Mikkel S. Eriksen and Tor Hermansen) and Jimmy Napes provide them a gorgeous canvas to paint upon vocally.  It’s nothing too far-fetched or the least bit wild, but it suits the vocalist – the beat, and keyboards/programming, including the dramatic, warm strings.

Last but not least is the theme.  Sam Smith doesn’t want to be alone – understandable.  Like everybody else in the world, “I just want somebody to die for,” they sing throughout the chorus and bridge of the song.  It’s especially relatable on the centerpiece, the chorus:

“Pink lemonade sippin’ on a Sunday
Couples holding hands on a runway
They’re all posing in a picture frame
Whilst my world’s crashing down
Solo shadow on a sidewalk
Just want somebody to die for
Sunshine livin’ on a perfect day
While my world’s crashing down
I just want somebody to die for.”

The lyrics and theme are relatable to anybody, regardless of sexual orientation, race, or otherwise.  Vocally, Smith remains elite.  Furthermore, Stargate and Jimmy Napes hook them up with strong production.  All in all, “To Die For” is quite enjoyable – sound by all means.

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10. Alec Benjamin, “Death of a Hero”

Narrated for You • 2018

“I tried to help but he said he was just too far from saving.”  One reason why “Death of a Hero” (Narrated for You) is a magnificent record is thanks to the fact that pop musician Alec Benjamin is incredibly authentic – quite sincere. Furthermore, the theme makes “Death of a Hero” a gem, with Benjamin expressing his disappointment with a role model.  We assume our role models to be saintly.  Then, what do they do? Disappoint us, forcing us to regroup and rethink everything.

“Death of a Hero,” hence is a ‘deadly’ song, metaphorically speaking.  Here, the singer/songwriter’s “Superman” exhibits his unflattering side, and the image of his hero is forever tarnished.  There, my friends, is the metaphorical death. “Death of a Hero” was selected as one of the 100 Best Songs of 2018, as well as being recognized on Recapping 40 Stunning Ballads from 2018.

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11. Luke Bryan, “Born Here Live Here Die Here”

Born Here Live Here Die Here • Capitol Nashville • 2020

Luke Bryan returns in 2020 with his seventh studio album, Born Here Live Here Die Here.  Though his third single from the project, “Born Here Live Here Die Here”, has the word ‘die’ in its title, it won’t kill you… at least it shouldn’t… “Born Here Live Here Die Here” is the type of record that Bryan tends to eat up.  Written by Jake Mitchell, Jameson Rodgers, and Josh Thompson, “Born Here Live Here Die Here” is reminiscent in tone. Bryan brings those reminiscent lyrics to life beautifully as he expresses pride for his hometown.  It’s nothing new in country music – hometowns are a common topic – but hey, Luke sells it compellingly.

One of the biggest selling points is the chorus, which sums up the sentiment:

“Born here, live here, die here
From the roots, to the boots, to the lay me down suit
Yeah, I’m gonna be proud to be right here
Just like my daddy, and his daddy did too
Ride the same roads, work the same dirt
Go to the same church and drink the same beer
Born here, live here, die here
Yeah.”

Besides those reminiscent lyrics, Luke Bryan delivers well-rounded vocals.  Sure, the twang is heavy, but that’s what we’ve come to expect from the country singer.  Also, the production suits Bryan characteristically, thanks to Jeff Stevens and Jody Stevens. All in all, he delivers another country hit that plays to his strengths, even if it doesn’t move the needle.

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12. Cattle Decapitation, “Death Atlas”

Death Atlas • Metal Blade • 2019

There is one thing is for sure – death/extreme metal band Cattle Decapitation has a distinct, totally unforgettable name.  Maybe the best way to characterize the name is as disturbing. Regardless, Travis Ryan and company back up the name with an intriguing brand of music that certainly isn’t for the faint of heart. After a four-year hiatus, the band returned turned-up on their eighth studio album, Death Atlas.

“We deserve everything that’s coming / We’ll take this world to our graves!” K… What better way to conclude the 2019 album than its title track, “Death Atlas?”  “Death Atlas” is quite lengthy, racing past nine minutes in duration. Sure, it’s quite long, but, as one might expect, there’s a little bit of everything on the title track.  Sometimes, it’s incredibly brutal, while at other times, there are lightly more melodic ideas, particularly when it comes to the vocals. Musically, there are shifts that keep things intriguing.

Of course, the expiration date is imminent:

“And I count the days ‘til we expire our ways
To be alive is to survive everything
To make do with anything, until we die
To be alive is to squander everything
To stumble towards anything, to feel alive.”

Honestly, this may be the one song no this list that might kill leave you literally dead – just saying!

“Alas, the deed is done
Mankind now dead and gone
Post-Anthropocene, Earth reset to day one
Fire now rages on.”

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Deadly Songs Unlikely to Leave You Literally Dead (Vol. 2) 🎧 [Photo Credits: Alec Benjamin, Atlantic, Brent Faulkner, Capitol, Capitol Nashville, Columbia, Darkroom, Def Jam, Interscope, Island, Metal Blade, Metal Blade, Pexels, Pixabay, RCA, Robots and Humans, The Musical Hype, Unsplash, XL]

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