Judas Priest – “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’” Lyrics Meaning

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Written By Joanna Landrum

Joanna holds a BSc in English Literature and uses her expertise in literary analysis to uncover the deeper meaning of her favorite songs.

“You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’” by Judas Priest is a rock anthem about empowerment, resilience, and living life to the fullest. The song encourages listeners to stand tall, take control, and not let opportunities pass by. The message is clear: don’t settle for mediocrity or let anyone undermine your worth. It’s an anthem for the determined, a rallying cry for those ready to seize life with both hands. The songwriters, in creating this track, aim to inspire confidence and a go-getter attitude. They capture a spirit of defiance and self-assurance, urging listeners to push boundaries and defy expectations.


Get ready to unleash your inner rock star and explore a track that’s all about living life on your terms. “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’” is a journey of empowerment and resilience. Let’s crank up the volume and find out what makes this rock anthem tick!


“You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’” Lyrics Meaning

“One life, I’m gonna live it up.” The opening line sets the tone for the entire song—a declaration of living life fully and without reservation. The lyrics speak to those on the brink of greatness, ready to “take flight” and not “sit around as the world goes by.”

The chorus, “You’ve got another thing comin’,” warns anyone who doubts or undermines the singer. It’s a bold statement of self-assurance and determination, emphasizing that nothing will stand in the way.

The line “Out there is a fortune waitin’ to be had” suggests a world full of opportunities, waiting for those brave enough to take them. The song encourages listeners to be proactive, take control, and not let fear hold them back.

The second verse, “Drive hard, I’m callin’ all the shots,” reinforces this message of empowerment. The singer is in control, making decisions and living life on their terms.

The lyrics also touch on the challenges of life, acknowledging “we have our share of sorrow.” Yet, the song remains optimistic, urging listeners to aim for a better tomorrow and not give in to despair.

Toward the end, the song ramps up the intensity with lines like “real strong, got me some security.” It’s a statement of achieved success and stability, a testament to the power of resilience and self-belief.

The Story Behind “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’”

Released in 1982, “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’” quickly became one of Judas Priest’s most iconic songs. At the time, the band was on a mission to create powerful, anthemic music that resonated with their fans, and they certainly achieved that with this track.

The songwriters, including lead vocalist Rob Halford, were in a state of confidence and determination. They wanted to create a song that not only showcased their musical prowess but also sent a message of empowerment and resilience.

Halford, known for his powerful voice and commanding stage presence, has often spoken about the importance of believing in oneself and not conforming to societal expectations. This song reflects those beliefs, encapsulating a spirit of defiance and self-assurance.

In crafting “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’,” Judas Priest created more than just a rock anthem; they created a timeless message of empowerment, encouraging listeners to seize life, defy expectations, and live on their own terms.