"Aces High" is a classic heavy metal track by Iron Maiden, released in 1984 as the opening song and second single from their fifth studio album, Powerslave. Written by bassist Steve Harris, it stands as one of the band’s most energetic and iconic songs12.
Song Overview
- Album: Powerslave (1984)
- Writer: Steve Harris
- Genre: Heavy Metal
- Length: 4:31 (album version)
- Single Release: Eleventh single by Iron Maiden1
- Notable Live Opener: Frequently used to open Iron Maiden concerts, often preceded by a recording of Winston Churchill’s famous WWII speech.
Lyrical Theme and Meaning
- The lyrics are written from the perspective of a British Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot during the Battle of Britain in 1940, the first major military campaign fought entirely by air forces.
- The song vividly describes the tension and adrenaline of aerial dogfights against the German Luftwaffe, capturing the urgency and danger of defending Britain from bombing raids.
- The title "Aces High" refers to fighter pilots who achieved "ace" status by shooting down multiple enemy aircraft.
Key Lyrical Imagery
"There goes the siren that warns of the air raid
There comes the sound of the guns sending flak
Out for the scramble, we've got to get airborne
Got to get up for the coming attack..."2
The chorus encapsulates the song’s spirit:
"Run, live to fly
Fly to live, do or die
Won't you run, live to fly, fly to live, aces high"2
Musical Style and Impact
- Fast-paced, aggressive riffs and soaring vocals mirror the intensity of aerial combat.
- Features signature twin guitar harmonies by Dave Murray and Adrian Smith, a driving bassline by Steve Harris, and Nicko McBrain’s powerful drumming.
- The song’s structure and relentless energy have made it a staple of Iron Maiden’s live shows and a favorite among fans.
Historical Context
- The Battle of Britain was a pivotal World War II conflict where RAF pilots defended the UK from German air attacks. The song pays tribute to their bravery and the high-stakes nature of air warfare124.
- Live performances often begin with Churchill’s speech: "We shall fight on the beaches..."
This sets a dramatic tone before the band launches into the song.
Legacy
- "Aces High" is celebrated as one of Iron Maiden’s most enduring tracks, regularly featured in their setlists and various live albums.
- Its historical narrative, combined with electrifying music, has cemented its place as a highlight of the band’s catalog and a standout in the heavy metal genre.
In summary:
"Aces High" is a powerful tribute to WWII RAF pilots, combining historical storytelling with Iron Maiden’s signature metal sound. Its fast tempo, vivid lyrics, and live performance legacy make it a defining anthem for the band and the genre123.
