Welcome to a brand new article, I love writing about gigs and concert but Gigstory is going to be taking a break for a little while and may return in 2023. The one thing I love about music is that everyone has their own story to tell – the musician, the lyrics, the way the fans decipher them and also the way a song can also create a memory or a meaning to someone. That is what this new article is all about. Each fortnight, we will take a look at a different song and I will take you as a trip down memory lane as to what it means to me. Welcome to Music Memories.

Track: 7 Nation Army
Artist: The White Stripes
Original Release Date: 17th February 2003

When this single was released, there was no other song like it. A heavy, prominent drum beat that was bold, striking, there to make a point, to be catchy, rememberable and something your wouldn’t forget in a hurry. Whilst most people will tell you that this is their favourite part of the song, for me it is the first guitar riff and let me tell you why.

There was this guy (because all stories start with this sort of thing don’t they) that I liked when I was at school. He was very much into rock music, with the spiky hair, the wrist bands and the way he customised his uniform. He was also one of the only people I knew who played a guitar which as a teen was pretty hot.

In the final couple of years of high school, half of the year would have free time when the other half didn’t. Every week we would have science the other part would have the free time. I wasn’t a fan of science as our teachers were usually all supply teachers, so I found it hard to learn.

However, in the final year when we had a particular science lesson I used to really enjoy it. At the time the room above was being used as a rehearsal space for the guys band and they would always start by playing The White Stripes, Seven Nation Army.

Whilst I was meant to be learning, instead I was listening to every sound his guitar made. That first guitar melody used to cut through my heart and give me butterflies. Every time I hear the songs melodies and riffs, even ow it takes me straight to that exact lesson and that particular memory.

It is not a song that I would say is my favourite, it has always been on that I am not sure how I feel about it. I have always appreciated how unique it was and don’t think there has been anything similar since. The guitar solos throughout elevate this track to a whole different level and is truly phenomenal piece of simple yet striking piece of music.

Facts About Seven Nation Army

• The title inspired by Jack White’s misunderstanding of the name of the Salvation Army as a child
•  It won Best Rock Song at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards
• “Seven Nation Army” played a significant role in the White Stripes’ popularity.
• The riff is commonly used in sports audience’s chants, in which each note is usually sung using the “oh” sound
• “Seven Nation Army” was produced by White and recorded at Toe Rag Studios in London’s Hackney area