Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: show-tunes
Song Meaning of “King Herod’s Song” by Andrew Lloyd Webber
This song from the musical Jesus Christ Superstar tells the story of the villain, King Herod’s internal struggle as he finds out that Jesus, a powerful figure, is in his city. The lyrics tell us of the fear and frustration that he feels as he realizes that his power and control are quickly slipping away. He is trying to process what this new figure represents and how it will affect his kingdom. He questions Jesus and his teachings and wonders if Jesus is truly the son of God that many believe him to be. He expresses his confusion between logic and faith, and whether he can choose one thing over the other. We can feel Herod’s inner conflict as he is torn between his fear for his people and his own power, and the potential implication of Jesus’ teachings. In the end, he finds himself unable to grapple with Jesus’ mission and authority. There is a sense of humility as he realizes that he is powerless against Jesus and his destiny. The song is an honest reflection of the struggle King Herod faces in trying to make sense of the world and accept a higher power.