The Time Anthrax Wrote A Song Inspired By The Rodney King Riots

March 20, 2025

It was the spring of 1992, and the air in Los Angeles was thick with tension. The city was recovering from the shock of the Rodney King verdict, which had infuriated many after the video footage of King being beaten by police officers was shown to the world. Protests erupted into chaos, and fiery riots spread across the streets, shaking the very foundations of neighborhoods. For the band Anthrax, known for their heavy metal sound and powerful lyrics, this turmoil was a call to action. They had always been inspired by the struggles of everyday people, and now they found themselves wanting to create something that would resonate with the emotions and frustrations of those around them.

As the band members gathered in their rehearsal space, they couldn’t shake off the images they had seen on the news. They were haunted by the cries for justice and the anger that filled the streets. Scott Ian, the band’s guitarist, spoke about the need to express what was happening. “We’re a voice for the people,” he said, his voice filled with passion. “We have to write a song about this, to channel the pain and frustration into something powerful.” Inspired by Scott’s words, the band began putting together a song that would illustrate the struggle for justice and equality. It was a process that would take weeks, filled with intense discussions and raw emotion.

The song they created was called “One World,” and it was a fusion of their heavy metal roots and a heartfelt message. Lyrics flowed like the fiery spirit of the protests outside, depicting the pain of those who felt unheard and the strength of unity among people demanding change. The music was loud and fierce, embodying the energy of the riots while simultaneously expressing a deep yearning for peace and understanding. The members of Anthrax felt a weight on their shoulders, knowing they were stepping into the tumultuous waters of social commentary. But they also felt empowered, using their music as a platform to inspire others and spark conversations.

When “One World” was finally released, it struck a chord with fans and critics alike. The song became an anthem for those who felt marginalized and disillusioned, and Anthrax’s message resonated far beyond the world of heavy metal. They received letters from fans who had been inspired to speak out, to participate in their communities, and to fight for justice. The song gave voice to the voiceless, becoming a rallying cry during a pivotal moment in American history. Anthrax realized that they were more than just a band; they were part of a larger conversation about change and resilience.

In the years that followed, the band continued to evolve, but “One World” remained a significant part of their journey. It reminded them of how music could influence the world and help heal wounds. Scott Ian often spoke about the power of art in tough times, sharing that creating the song had been a transformative experience for him personally. Instead of being just entertainers, they had become advocates for change, using their platform to inspire others to stand up against injustice.

Looking back, the experience of writing “One World” profoundly affected the careers and lives of the band members. They learned that music has the power to challenge the status quo and spark change. The Rodney King riots, instead of breaking them down, had fueled their creativity and ignited a passion that would carry them forward. Anthrax emerged from that period not just as a heavy metal band but as a strong voice for those in need, showing that art can be a force for good, capable of bringing people together in the face of adversity.