About the song
“Vengeance” is a powerful and evocative song written and performed by the American singer-songwriter Carly Simon. Released as the lead single from her eighth studio album, *Spy* (1979), this track stands out not only for its striking composition but also for its place in music history. Produced by the renowned Arif Mardin, “Vengeance” showcases Simon’s bold and daring vocal style, paired with an urban rock sound that includes ominous guitar chords and the distinct touch of syndrums. The song’s sharp and dynamic qualities are a departure from Simon’s more restrained performances, revealing a new, edgier side of the artist.
The song’s significance is further highlighted by its accompanying music video. Carly Simon became the second female solo artist to be featured on MTV during its inaugural day on the air. This was a major milestone, as MTV was at the forefront of the music video revolution that would dominate the 1980s. The video for “Vengeance” not only captured the attention of viewers but was also used by MTV in a commercial to encourage audiences to upgrade their television sets for stereo sound. This promotional clip was so impactful that Pioneer Electronics chose it to be part of their first demo disc for the newly introduced LaserDisc player, further cementing its place in the early days of music video culture.
While “Vengeance” may not have reached the upper echelons of the Billboard Pop Singles chart, peaking just shy of the Top 40 at No. 48, it made a lasting impression. The song also reached No. 52 on the Cash Box top singles chart, showcasing its appeal to a broad audience. Carly Simon’s performance on “Vengeance” was so compelling that it earned her a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Vocal Performance, Female, at the 1980 Grammy Awards. This was particularly noteworthy as it was the first year this category was introduced, highlighting Simon’s influence and innovation in the rock genre.
Over the years, “Vengeance” has been recognized as a significant part of Carly Simon’s illustrious career. The track was included in her two-disc career compilation set *Anthology* (2002), as well as the three-disc special edition compilation *Carly Simon Collector’s Edition* (2009). These inclusions serve as a testament to the enduring power and relevance of the song, which continues to resonate with fans old and new alike. “Vengeance” remains a shining example of Carly Simon’s artistic range and her ability to push boundaries in her music.
Video
Lyrics
That’s dangerous driving baby, The policeman said.
I can smell the passion of another man on your breath
I could give you life, get you back for what I saw
That’s vengeance he said, that’s the lawYou throw your misdemeanors right up in my face
The kind of man I am, I got to put you right in your lace
I should lock you up, get you back for what I saw
That’s vengeance he said, that’s the law
That’s vengeance, Oh that’s vengeance
Yeah that’s vengeance he said, that’s the lawYou’ve taken your half out of the middle
Time and time again
But now I’m damned if I’ll give you and itch
Till I get evenShe said: Just because you’re stronger and you hold it over me
I’ll put the pedal to the floor, and prove to you that I’m free
Though you’ve stopped me once again, It’s not the end of the war
It’s vengeance she said, that’s the law
That’s vengeance, that’s vengeance she said,
That’s the law