Lana Del Rey is one of the most distinctive and influential pop stars of the 21st century. Her music blends retro glamour, cinematic storytelling, and melancholic romance, creating a unique and captivating sound that has earned her millions of fans and critical acclaim. But Lana Del Rey is not just a pop star; she is also a Rock fan who draws inspiration from some of the most iconic rock artists and songs of all time. In this article, we will explore how Lana Del Rey incorporates rock elements into her music, from her lyrics and melodies to her production and aesthetics. We will also look at some of the best Lana Del Rey rock songs that showcase her love for the genre.

Lana Del Rey’s Rock Influences

Lana Del Rey has cited many rock artists as her influences, ranging from classic rock legends like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and David Bowie, to alternative rock icons like Nirvana, Radiohead, and The Smashing Pumpkins. She has also expressed admiration for female rock singers like Stevie Nicks, Courtney Love, Patti Smith, and Joan Jett. Lana Del Rey has said that she grew up listening to rock music and that it shaped her musical taste and style. She told Rolling Stone in 2014: “I was always drawn to the darker side of things. I liked Kurt Cobain, Nirvana, Hole. I liked Biggie [Smalls]. I liked people who were really struggling with something.”

Lana Del Rey’s rock influences are evident in her music, both in terms of sound and content. She often uses rock instruments like electric guitars, drums, and bass to create a rich and dynamic sonic landscape. She also incorporates rock elements like distortion, feedback, reverb, and fuzz to add texture and edge to her songs. Moreover, she references rock songs and artists in her lyrics, either directly or indirectly, as a way of paying homage or creating intertextuality. For example, she quotes Lou Reed’s “Walk on the Wild Side” in “Video Games”, name-drops Jim Morrison in “Gods & Monsters”, and alludes to The Eagles’ “Hotel California” in “Cola. She also covers rock songs by artists like Nirvana (“Heart-Shaped Box”), Leonard Cohen (“Chelsea Hotel No. 2”), and Sublime (“Doin’ Time”), putting her own spin on them.

Lana Del Rey’s Rock Songs

While Lana Del Rey is primarily known as a pop singer, she has also released several songs that can be considered as rock songs, or at least influenced by rock genres like indie rock, psychedelic rock, hard rock, or grunge. Here are some of the best Lana Del Rey rock songs that demonstrate her versatility and creativity as a musician.

• Ultraviolence: The title track of her third album is a dark and hypnotic song that features heavy guitar riffs, distorted vocals, and a haunting chorus. The song was inspired by Anthony Burgess’ novel A Clockwork Orange, which uses the term “ultraviolence” to describe acts of extreme violence. Lana Del Rey sings from the perspective of a woman who is in an abusive relationship with a man who loves guns and roses. She told The Guardian in 2014: “For me, a true feminist is someone who is a woman who does exactly what she wants. If my choice is to do nothing except write songs all day behind closed doors because I want to do it then I’m doing it.”

• West Coast: One of Lana Del Rey’s most popular songs is a sultry and seductive ode to California and its allure. The song has a distinctive structure that alternates between two tempos: a slow and languid verse that evokes the laid-back vibe of the West Coast, and a fast and upbeat chorus that captures the excitement and glamour of Hollywood. The song was co-written and produced by Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, who added his signature blues-rock touch to the track.

• Heroin: A fan-favorite from her fifth album Lust for Life, this song is a raw and emotional confession of addiction and regret. Lana Del Rey sings about how heroin gave her everything and took her life away, referencing Charles Manson and Motley Crue along the way. The song has a psychedelic feel to it, with swirling guitars, echoing vocals, and a dramatic climax.

• Florida Kilos: A bonus track from Ultraviolence, this song is a fun and upbeat tribute to Florida’s drug culture. Lana Del Rey sings about partying with cocaine dealers, riding motorcycles on the beach, and living the high life in the Sunshine State. The song has a catchy and infectious chorus that invites the listener to join the festivities: “Come on down to Florida / I got something for ya / We could see the kilos or the keys, baby, oh ya”.

• Chemtrails Over the Country Club: The lead single from her seventh album of the same name, this song is a nostalgic and dreamy reflection on her life and relationships. Lana Del Rey sings about her simple pleasures and desires, such as swimming in pools, driving sports cars, and watching chemtrails in the sky. The song has a folk-rock vibe to it, with acoustic guitars, piano, and strings. It also features a stunning vocal performance by Lana Del Rey, who showcases her range and expressiveness.

The Bottom Line

Lana Del Rey is a pop star who loves rock music and incorporates it into her own artistic vision. She draws inspiration from various rock artists and songs, both in terms of sound and content. She also releases songs that can be classified as rock songs, or at least influenced by rock genres. Lana Del Rey’s rock songs are some of her best and most memorable works, as they showcase her musical talent, creativity, and personality. Lana Del Rey is not just a pop star; she is also a rock fan who makes rock music for other rock fans.

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