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“Sleep Now in the Fire” by Rage Against the Machine is a fiery protest song that exemplifies the band’s fierce blend of political activism and hard-hitting rock. Released in 1999 as part of their album The Battle of Los Angeles, the track delivers a scathing critique of capitalism, greed, and systemic oppression. Tom Morello’s innovative guitar riffs drive the song’s aggressive tone, while Zack de la Rocha’s incendiary lyrics and vocal delivery demand attention. The song’s relentless energy mirrors its message of resistance, making it a powerful anthem for social and economic justice.
The music video, directed by Michael Moore, famously features the band performing on the steps of the New York Stock Exchange, symbolizing their defiance against financial institutions and economic inequality. The protest disrupted business operations, further highlighting the song’s theme of challenging the status quo. Lyrically, de la Rocha critiques the exploitation inherent in unchecked capitalism, referencing historical injustices and the cost of material excess. Sleep Now in the Fire stands as one of Rage Against the Machine’s most iconic tracks, blending their signature musical intensity with a call for societal change that remains relevant decades after its release.