About the Song
"Run to the Hills" is a song by the English heavy metal band Iron Maiden. It was released as their sixth single and the first from the band's third studio album, The Number of the Beast (1982). It is their first single with Bruce Dickinson as vocalist. Credited solely to the band's bassist, Steve Harris, Dickinson contributed to the song but could not be credited due to a contractual agreement with his former band Samson. "Run to the Hills" remains one of the band's most popular songs, with VH1 ranking it No. 27 on their list of the 40 Greatest Metal Songs, No. 14 on their list of the Greatest Hard Rock Songs, and Rolling Stone ranking it No. 10 on their list of the 100 greatest heavy metal songs.
Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics of "Run to the Hills" can be read as a powerful commentary on the clash between indigenous peoples and colonizers. For many listeners, the song captures the intense emotions surrounding themes of survival, loss, and resistance. The narrative reflects the broader historical struggles faced by marginalized communities, making it resonate deeply with those who appreciate its lyrical depth. The energetic metal sound juxtaposed with these poignant themes emphasizes a sense of urgency and defiance, allowing it to transcend mere storytelling and become an anthem of awareness and reflection on human struggles.
Did You Know?
- Iron Maiden are an English heavy metal band formed in Leyton, East London, in 1975 by bassist and primary songwriter Steve Harris.
- As pioneers of the new wave of British heavy metal movement, Iron Maiden released a series of UK and US Platinum and Gold albums, including 1980's eponymous debut album, 1981's Killers, and 1982's The Number of the Beast – its first album with Dickinson, who in 1981 replaced Paul Di'Anno as lead singer.
Music Details
These details come from the iTunes song listing used for the artwork and metadata match.
- Album/collection: Somewhere Back in Time – The Best of 1980-1989
- Genre: Metal
- iTunes release date: February 12, 1982
- Track runtime: 3:53
Video Snapshot
- Video title: Iron Maiden – Run To The Hills (Official Video)
- YouTube channel: Iron Maiden
Quick Facts
- Artist: Iron Maiden
- Song: Run to the Hills (2015 Remaster)
- Album/collection: Somewhere Back in Time – The Best of 1980-1989
- Genre: Metal
- Reference page: Run to the Hills

