The song "3 Shades of Black" by Hank Williams III is about a group of people who come from a dark and difficult background. The three shades of black represent depression, misery, and hellacious fun, which may have been the defining experiences of their lives. These people are proud of their background and they wear their darkness like a badge of honor. The song describes these people as a certain breed who do not accept outsiders. Some are junkies, freaks, and everyday ghouls, and they all like metal and whiskey. They live hard and chase down hell, never giving up on what they have because the darkness gives them their thrills. The song can be interpreted as a celebration of alternative lifestyles and a rejection of societal norms. It speaks to those who have had difficult lives and identifies with their pain and struggles. Overall, it is a song about finding strength in the face of adversity and making the best of a difficult situation.
