About this album
Where they were
Released on March 26, 1980, 'Women and Children First' is Van Halen's third studio album, following the successful 'Van Halen II'. At this point, the band was solidifying their status as rock icons, building on the momentum of their previous albums while beginning to experiment with more complex arrangements and lyrical themes.
Why it matters
The album debuted at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a significant commercial success for the band. Critics praised its energetic sound and innovative songwriting, helping to further establish Van Halen as a major force in the rock genre during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Essential tracks
- "And the Cradle Will Rock…" — This opening track showcases Eddie Van Halen's signature guitar work and introduces the album's dynamic energy with its iconic keyboard riff.
- "Everybody Wants Some!!" — A quintessential anthem of youthful exuberance, this track features clever lyrics and a memorable chorus that captures the band's playful spirit.
- "Fools" — Blending heavy riffs with introspective lyrics, 'Fools' demonstrates the band's ability to combine hard rock sound with deeper thematic elements.
- "Tora! Tora!" — 'Tora! Tora!' stands out for its unique arrangement and serves as a brief interlude that showcases the band's flair for experimentation.
- "In a Simple Rhyme" — 'In a Simple Rhyme' closes the album with emotional depth, featuring intricate guitar harmonies and reflective lyrics that leave a lasting impression.
Release Date
March 26, 1980
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 And the Cradle Will Rock… 3:33
- 2 Everybody Wants Some!! 5:08
- 3 Fools 5:56
- 4 Romeo Delight 4:19
- 5 Tora! Tora! 0:56
- 6 Loss of Control 2:39
- 7 Take Your Whiskey Home 3:11
- 8 Could This Be Magic? 3:09
- 9 In a Simple Rhyme 4:40