The song "King of Mean" by U.D.O. is a heavy metal anthem that portrays the persona of a powerful and intimidating individual. The lyrics describe the protagonist as various lethal and destructive forces, such as a pit bull, shotgun, ten-ton truck loaded with TNT, missile, tiger, midnight hellcat, bastard, and son of a bitch. These metaphors emphasize their dominance and ferocity. The chorus repeats the line "Cause I'm the king of mean," highlighting the protagonist's ruthless nature and commanding presence. The lyrics also mention symbols of power and destruction like Holy Moses, Holy smoke, and the hammer of hell, further reinforcing the aggressive and destructive imagery. The song suggests that the protagonist is someone to be feared and respected, capable of inflicting devastation and rendering others helpless. They are compared to a chainsaw, lightning, and a crosshair, representing their ability to swiftly eliminate their targets. The bridge section talks about the protagonist's intention to bring wasteland and destruction, riding on the devil's tail. This reinforces their malevolence and their confidence in causing chaos. The overall meaning of the song revolves around the portrayal of an individual with immense power and a ruthless, destructive nature. It highlights the consequences that others will face if they cross paths with this dominant force.
