Seven Nation Army

A while ago, I set myself the challenge to come up with a list of modern songs that had their roots in things that are spiritual. Perhaps I succeeded, perhaps I didn't. I did, however, discover a large number of tracks that were inspired by my own particular church denomination, namely The Salvation Army. And I'm still finding more ...

Take, for example, the song Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes. A rock classic...

The song was written and produced by Jack White, who wrote the track as a little experiment; a compelling song that did not include a chorus. The seven-note riff that is central to the song is most distinctive.

The song's title originated from the writer's mispronunciation of the name of The Salvation Army as a child. White was the seventh son of devout Catholics, and at one time was considering entering the priesthood; he actually got accepted, however didn't go as he worked out that he couldn’t take his guitar to the Wisconsin seminary... "I had just gotten a new amplifier in my bedroom, and I didn't think I was allowed to take it with me," he said in an interview.

The song title was used by White as a placeholder for the track before its lyrics were written; the name ultimately stuck. It became the band's signature song, soon reaching number one in the charts when released as a single. The song has gone on to become a sports and protest anthem.