Ronald

Album: Popular Monster (2024)
Charted: 113
Play Video

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.

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Supertramp founder Roger Hodgson

Supertramp founder Roger HodgsonSongwriter Interviews

Roger tells the stories behind some of his biggest hits, including "Give a Little Bit," "Take the Long Way Home" and "The Logical Song."

Hardy

HardySongwriter Interviews

The country hitmaker talks about his debut album, A Rock, and how a nursery rhyme inspired his hit single "One Beer."

Arrested For Your Art - The Story Of 2 Live Crew's "Obscene" Album

Arrested For Your Art - The Story Of 2 Live Crew's "Obscene" AlbumSong Writing

In the summer of 1990, you could get arrested for selling a 2 Live Crew album or performing their songs in Southern Florida. And that's exactly what happened.

Weird Al Yankovic

Weird Al YankovicFact or Fiction

Did Al play on a Beach Boys record? Did he have beef with George Lucas and Coolio? See if you can spot weird but true stories.

The Truth Is Out There: A History of Alien Songs

The Truth Is Out There: A History of Alien SongsSong Writing

The trail runs from flying saucer songs in the '50s, through Bowie, blink-182 and Katy Perry.

Michelle Branch

Michelle BranchSongwriter Interviews

Michelle Branch talks about "Everywhere," "The Game Of Love," and her run-in with a Christian broadcasting network.