About the song
“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult is a timeless rock classic that has captivated audiences since its release in 1976. Written by the band’s guitarist, Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser, this haunting track is featured on Blue Öyster Cult’s album “Agents of Fortune.”
With its mesmerizing guitar riff and ethereal vocals, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” explores themes of love, mortality, and the passage of time. Its evocative lyrics and melodic hooks have earned it a permanent place in the annals of rock history.
Upon its release, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” climbed the charts, peaking at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its success was further solidified by its inclusion in various film soundtracks and television shows, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone.
Beyond its commercial success, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” has left an indelible mark on popular culture, inspiring countless covers and tributes over the years. Its enduring appeal continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, making it a staple of classic rock radio stations and playlists.
As Blue Öyster Cult continues to perform and record music, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” remains a highlight of their live shows, eliciting cheers and sing-alongs from fans around the world. Whether you’re a longtime listener or discovering the song for the first time, its timeless message of acceptance and transcendence is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
All our times have come
Here but now they’re gone
Seasons don’t fear the reaper
Nor do the wind, the sun or the rain
We can be like they are
Come on, baby (don’t fear the reaper)
Baby, take my hand (don’t fear the reaper)
We’ll be able to fly (don’t fear the reaper)
Baby, I’m your man
La, la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la, la
Valentine is done
Here but now they’re gone
Romeo and Juliet
Are together in eternity (Romeo and Juliet)
40, 000 men and women everyday (like Romeo and Juliet)
40, 000 men and women everyday (redefine happiness)
Another 40, 000 coming everyday (we can be like they are)
Come on, baby (don’t fear the reaper)
Baby, take my hand (don’t fear the reaper)
We’ll be able to fly (don’t fear the reaper)
Baby, I’m your man
La, la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la, la
Love of two is one
Here but now they’re gone
Came the last night of sadness
And it was clear she couldn’t go on
Then the door was open and the wind appeared
The candles blew and then disappeared
The curtains flew and then he appeared
Saying don’t be afraid
Come on, baby (and she had no fear)
And she ran to him (then they started to fly)
They looked backward and said goodbye (she had become like they are)
She had taken his hand (she had become like they are)
Come on, baby (don’t fear the reaper)