1. “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash
“Folsom Prison Blues” is a classic track by Johnny Cash that delves into the mind of a prisoner. Although not directly about a specific crime, the song was inspired by Cash’s interest in the lives of inmates. The line “I shot a man in Reno just to watch him die” captures the despair and regret often felt by those incarcerated.
2. “Helter Skelter” by The Beatles
This Beatles classic took on a sinister association following the infamous Manson Family murders. Charles Manson interpreted the song as a call to incite an apocalyptic race war, which he referred to as “Helter Skelter.” Although not the song’s intended meaning, its connection to these horrific events is indelible.
3. “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” by Vicki Lawrence
This song tells the story of a man wrongfully accused of murder. While the specifics of the tale are fictional, it reflects the themes of injustice and the loss of life that are often present in true crime stories. Its haunting lyrics and compelling narrative make it a staple in crime-inspired music.
4. “I Don’t Like Mondays” by The Boomtown Rats
Inspired by a tragic school shooting in San Diego in 1979, this song explores the senselessness of violence. The shooter, a 16-year-old girl, infamously stated her reason for opening fire was, “I don’t like Mondays.” The song became a poignant commentary on the shocking nature of such events.
5. “Nebraska” by Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen’s “Nebraska” draws from the story of Charles Starkweather, a spree killer who murdered 11 people in the late 1950s. The song captures the chilling detachment of Starkweather and his accomplice, exploring themes of alienation and the loss of innocence.
6. “Suffer Little Children” by The Smiths
This track by The Smiths is a somber tribute to the victims of the Moors Murders, a series of gruesome child murders in England during the 1960s. The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics offer a reflection on the tragedy and its lasting impact on the community.
7. “Midnight Rambler” by The Rolling Stones
Inspired by the crimes of Albert DeSalvo, known as the Boston Strangler, “Midnight Rambler” is a chilling track that reflects the fear and violence of his crimes. The song’s raw energy and menacing tone capture the terror DeSalvo instilled in his victims.
8. “Jenny Was a Friend of Mine” by The Killers
This song is part of a trilogy by The Killers that narrates a murder mystery. While not based on a specific true crime, it draws inspiration from the narrative style of crime storytelling, creating a suspenseful and engaging musical experience.
9. “Bloodbath in Paradise” by Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne’s track references the Manson Family murders, specifically targeting Sharon Tate and her friends. The song captures the chaos and horror of those infamous killings, serving as a dark reminder of the impact of cult mentality and violence.
10. “Riders on the Storm” by The Doors
While not directly about a specific crime, “Riders on the Storm” is often linked to the story of Billy Cook, a hitchhiker and spree killer. The song’s eerie atmosphere and haunting lyrics evoke the sense of danger and unpredictability associated with Cook’s actions.
11. “Hey Joe” by Jimi Hendrix
“Hey Joe” is a song that tells the story of a man on the run after committing murder. While the song itself is not based on a true crime, its narrative style and themes of jealousy and violence resonate with the dark tales often found in criminal history.
12. “22 Acacia Avenue” by Iron Maiden
This track from Iron Maiden’s discography explores the story of a woman working in the red-light district. While not based on a specific crime, the song highlights the harsh realities and dangers faced by those in such circumstances, drawing attention to societal issues often linked to crime.
13. “Murder Was the Case” by Snoop Dogg
Although primarily a rap song, Snoop Dogg’s “Murder Was the Case” deserves mention for its storytelling and connection to crime. The song narrates a fictional account of a man who survives a near-death experience and reflects on his life of crime, a theme that resonates with many real-life stories.
14. “Jack the Ripper” by Morrissey
Morrissey’s “Jack the Ripper” draws inspiration from the infamous serial killer who terrorized London in the late 19th century. The song’s haunting melody and chilling lyrics capture the mystery and horror surrounding the unsolved case.
15. “Stagger Lee” by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
This track is a reinterpretation of the traditional folk song “Stagger Lee,” which tells the story of a murder committed by the titular character. The song’s dark and violent narrative has been retold by various artists, with Nick Cave’s version emphasizing the brutality of the crime.