Anthrax And The Decision To Cover Joe Jackson’S Got The Time—And Own It

April 3, 2025

In the summer of 1991, the air was electric with anticipation. The California-based heavy metal band Anthrax was in the studio, preparing for their next album. They had already made a name for themselves with their unique blend of thrash metal and punk, but this time, they wanted to try something different. It was then that they stumbled upon “Got the Time,” a fast-paced song written by Joe Jackson. On first listen, the band was fascinated. It had a catchy rhythm and a certain raw energy that spoke to their hearts. They decided to cover it and put their own spin on it. It wasn’t just an experiment; it was a bold decision that could either lift them to new heights or risk their reputation.

When the band members first debated covering the song, there were mixed feelings. Some of them worried that choosing a pop song would alienate their hardcore metal fans. But lead guitarist Scott Ian was passionate about the idea, believing that it was essential to challenge themselves and expand their musical horizons. “If we don’t own it, what’s the point?” he said, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. Inspired by their convictions and the energy of the song, they proceeded to record it. The process was exhilarating, filled with laughter and creativity as they infused their thrash metal style into the upbeat melody. They turned it into something that felt new, something uniquely Anthrax.

Once “Got the Time” was released, the band waited with bated breath to see how fans would react. To their surprise, the response was overwhelmingly positive. It reached a wider audience, introducing Anthrax to listeners who might never have given them a chance otherwise. The combination of heavy guitar riffs and Jackson’s catchy lyrics brought the track to life in a way that resonated with both rock fans and newcomers. The song climbed the charts, hitting the airwaves and opening doors to new opportunities. Anthrax had succeeded in transforming a pop hit into something that reflected their distinct style—inviting people to appreciate the depth and versatility of their music.

But the journey didn’t come without its challenges. Some bands in the metal scene didn’t take kindly to their newfound fame, questioning their authenticity. Critics called them sellouts, claiming they were abandoning their roots. In the face of negativity, Scott Ian and the rest of the band stood firm. They decided to embrace the naysayers, using the criticism as fuel to propel them forward. They would not be defined by others’ opinions; instead, they chose to own every part of their musical journey, including the bold choice to cover a pop song. This resilience paid off. The band grew closer through the experience, and the support from loyal fans who appreciated their genuine passion for music outweighed the criticisms.

As the years rolled on, Anthrax continued to thrive, proving themselves not just as a band, but as pioneers in the rock scene. Their cover of “Got the Time” helped them solidify a legacy that embraced collaboration and creative risk-taking. Joe Jackson himself even expressed admiration for their version, recognizing the talent it took to reinterpret his work in such a powerful way. For Anthrax, the decision to cover the song became a symbol of their dedication to music and creativity. It showed that taking risks can lead to incredible rewards, not just in their careers, but in life.

In the end, the story of Anthrax and their version of “Got the Time” is a reminder of how passion and resilience can triumph over doubt. The band became a testament to the idea that it’s essential to follow your heart, even if it means stepping outside your comfort zone. Each note they played echoed their journey of growth and discovery, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness and keep pushing boundaries in whatever they love. Anthrax didn’t just cover a song; they owned it, transforming it into something wholly their own and proving that music is an adventure—one worth taking.