I Am the Law

Album: Among the Living (1987)
Charted: 32
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This song is about the comic book character Judge Dredd: "They call him Judge, his last name is Dredd." In the comic books, he was a man who sought after people who broke the law, "So break the law and you'll wind up dead." >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Cody - Kansas City, MO
  • Along with "Imitation of Life" (which also appeared on Among the Living), this is the last song for which departed bassist Danny Lilker, who despite leaving the band several years earlier, was attributed songwriting credits on several Anthrax songs released after his departure.
  • Anthrax were deep into the world of underground comics when they recorded this song. Bassist Frank Bello recalled to Powerline, March 1989 that when he helped guitarist Scot Ian move into his new apartment, he had "boxes and boxes of comic books. Danny has a bunch and Charlie does too, but Scott has the most."

    "I started collecting them when I was five," added Ian. "At first it was all Marvel and DC stuff because there wasn't anything else. But for the last year I have been spending most of my money on back issues and limited first editions of Stephen King stuff."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Frankie Valli

Frankie ValliSong Writing

An interview with Frankie Valli, who talks about why his songs - both solo and with The Four Seasons - have endured, and reflects on his time as Rusty Millio on The Sopranos.

Richard Marx

Richard MarxSongwriter Interviews

Richard explains how Joe Walsh kickstarted his career, and why he chose Hazard, Nebraska for a hit.

Spooner Oldham

Spooner OldhamSongwriter Interviews

His keyboard work helped define the Muscle Shoals sound and make him an integral part of many Neil Young recordings. Spooner is also an accomplished songwriter, whose hits include "I'm Your Puppet" and "Cry Like A Baby."

Judas Priest

Judas PriestSongwriter Interviews

Rob Halford, Richie Faulkner and Glenn Tipton talk twin guitar harmonies and explain how they create songs in Judas Priest.

Marc Campbell - "88 Lines About 44 Women"

Marc Campbell - "88 Lines About 44 Women"They're Playing My Song

The Nails lead singer Marc Campbell talks about those 44 women he sings about over a stock Casio keyboard track. He's married to one of them now - you might be surprised which.

Martyn Ware of Heaven 17

Martyn Ware of Heaven 17Songwriter Interviews

Martyn talks about producing Tina Turner, some Heaven 17 hits, and his work with the British Electric Foundation.