Dittohead

Album: Divine Intervention (1994)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Running for 2 minutes and 31 seconds, "Dittohead" critiques the American legal system for being overly lenient towards criminals. The song does not outright condemn this permissiveness but rather reflects a more complex perspective on the issue.
  • "Dittohead" was a term coined by conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh and his fanbase. It originated from Limbaugh's show, where he encouraged callers who agreed with him to simply say "ditto" instead of repeating praise or agreement, ostensibly to save airtime. The term "dittohead" became a badge of honor for Limbaugh's fans. It represented a sense of community and shared values among his listeners. However, critics began using the term more negatively, implying uncritical acceptance of ideas.

    By using this title, Slayer likely aimed to evoke the controversial nature of Limbaugh's influence and the concept of unquestioning followers, while applying it to their own critique of the legal system.
  • Slayer guitarist Kerry King is credited as the sole writer of the lyrics and music to "Dittohead."
  • Most of Slayer's music is incredibly fast, but "Dittohead" is one of their fastest. Asked during a Metal Hammer fan Q+A what is the most difficult Slayer song to play, King replied:

    "I could go a number of ways with that, but I'll say 'Dittohead' for the sheer speed of it. That's probably our fastest song, and it's not one I'm looking to play live any time soon."

Comments: 4

  • David from Lakeland, Flactually the 2006 cd is christ illusion
  • Luke from Manchester, EnglandThe CD was called "God Hates Us All"
  • Alan from Cleveland, OhFunny, I always thought this was a reference to Rush Limbaugh's use of dittohead, someone who agrees with him. And Kerry King's humor at the idiots who go along with anything that jerk says, like sheep to slaughter!
  • Frank from Philadelphia, Msthe song mr. freeze is about a crazy serial killer who stalks and tourtures his victims it is a good song it says "I don't even know you , I just kno where you live, i've raided your child's bedroom, burned his virgin skin." SLAYER IS COMIN OUT WITH A NEW CD IN 2006 idk wat its goin to be called but it will be sweet indeed
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Chris Squire of Yes

Chris Squire of YesSongwriter Interviews

One of the most dynamic bass player/songwriters of his time, Chris is the only member of Yes who has been with the band since they formed in 1968.

Devo

DevoSongwriter Interviews

Devo founders Mark Mothersbaugh and Jerry Casale take us into their world of subversive performance art. They may be right about the De-Evoloution thing.

Prince

PrinceFact or Fiction

Prince is shrouded in mystery, making him an excellent candidate for Fact or Fiction. Is he really a Scientologist? Does he own an exotic animal?

Narada Michael Walden - "Freeway of Love"

Narada Michael Walden - "Freeway of Love"They're Playing My Song

As a songwriter and producer, Narada had hits with Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Starship. But what song does he feel had the greatest impact on his career?

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.

Who Wrote That Song?

Who Wrote That Song?Music Quiz

Do you know who wrote Patti Smith's biggest hit? How about the Grease theme song? See if you can match the song to the writer.