Ronald

Album: Popular Monster (2024)
Charted: 113
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Songfacts®:

  • "Ronald" is a hard rock track about the transition from innocence to the harsh realities of adult life. Ronnie Radke's vocals range from melodic crooning to bone-chilling screams as he explores themes of identity and overcoming adversity.
  • But who is "Ronald"? While the titular character doesn't appear in the lyrics and Falling In Reverse haven't said anything, there are a couple of theories. Some believe it's a reference to Radke himself, while others suggest it's a nod to Ronald McDonald, the iconic clown mascot of the fast-food giant. He is often used as a symbol of childhood innocence and happiness.
  • The song features guest vocals from American rock rapper Tech N9ne and Alex Terrible of the Russian deathcore band Slaughter to Prevail. Jason Richardson of All That Remains also lends his guitar skills to the track.
  • Tech N9ne's lyrics caused a bit of a stir, with some listeners claiming they're transphobic.

    Sex change could get you caught up in death's range
    He pled sane but really imitating Ed Gein


    The rapper later clarified that his intention was to shed light on the issue of trans individuals being murdered. He also aimed to highlight society's tendency to question the authenticity of mental health claims when people's actions deviate from societal norms. He cited the case of Ed Gein, a notorious serial killer who was deemed legally insane despite his horrific crimes.
  • Jensen Noen (known for his work with Motionless In White and Black Veil Brides) directed the video. Noen has shot several other visuals for Falling in Reverse, including "Popular Monster," "Zombified" and "Watch The World Burn."

    It's a continuation of the video for Falling In Reverse's "Watch the World Burn," where Radke torches the world. Here he flees from a S.W.A.T team before Tech N9ne, in the guise of God, sends Radke to hell. There, he confronts the devil, played by Alex Terrible.
  • Radke co-produced "Ronald" with Tyler "Myth" Smyth, known for his work with I Prevail and Lights.
  • Falling in Reverse performed "Ronald" live for the first time on May 10, 2024, during the band's set at the Welcome To Rockville festival in Daytona Beach, Florida. Tech N9ne and Alex Terrible joined them onstage.
  • Falling In Reverse composed a sequel to "Ronald" titled "Joseph," released in September 2026 and named after Ronnie Radke's middle name, continuing the storyline built around his full birth name, Ronald Joseph Radke. The follow-up featured Corey Taylor of Slipknot and Serj Tankian of System of a Down.

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