#42 - Queens of the Stone Age - No One Knows
A hypnotic blend of desert rock riffs and surreal storytelling that catapulted Queens of the Stone Age into mainstream success.
Story Behind āNo One Knowsā by Queens of the Stone Age
Released in 2002 as the lead single from their critically acclaimed album Songs for the Deaf, No One Knows became the signature track for Queens of the Stone Age. Co-written by Josh Homme and Mark Lanegan, the song showcases the bandās unique desert rock soundāa fusion of heavy riffs, hypnotic melodies, and dynamic rhythms.
The lyrics of No One Knows are enigmatic and surreal, with themes of uncertainty, desire, and the unknown. While Homme has avoided offering a definitive interpretation, fans have speculated that the song explores the uncontrollable forces of life, relationships, and fate. The trackās haunting atmosphere is heightened by its driving bassline and iconic drum fills, performed by Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters and Nirvana fame, who joined the band for the albumās recording.
The music video, directed by Michel Gondry, adds a surreal layer to the songās mystique, following the band on a bizarre hunting trip that culminates in a chase with an anthropomorphic deer. The combination of visual creativity, rhythmic complexity, and Hommeās charismatic vocal delivery propelled No One Knows to widespread acclaim, solidifying the bandās status as innovators in rock music.
Technical Details
Notes About āNo One Knowsā by Queens of the Stone Age
Release Date: November 26, 2002
Album: Songs for the Deaf
Duration: 4:38
Key: F minor
BPM: 172
Genre: Alternative Rock, Desert Rock
Writers: Josh Homme, Mark Lanegan
Producers: Josh Homme, Eric Valentine
Album Details
Album: Songs for the Deaf
Release Date: August 27, 2002
Label: Interscope Records
Recording Location: The Site, San Rafael, California
Producer(s): Josh Homme, Eric Valentine
Band Members/Personnel
Josh Homme - Vocals, Guitar
Nick Oliveri - Bass, Backing Vocals
Dave Grohl - Drums
Mark Lanegan - Backing Vocals
Album Production Notes
Songs for the Deaf was produced with a raw, live sound in mind, capturing the energy and dynamics of a live performance. Dave Grohlās powerful drumming added a unique intensity to the album, and his collaboration with the band was pivotal in defining the trackās rhythmic complexity. Hommeās production approach emphasized groove and atmosphere, creating a seamless blend of heaviness and melody.
Interesting Facts about the Song and the Album
The track earned Queens of the Stone Age their first Grammy nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2003.
Dave Grohl initially joined the band to play drums on the album as a temporary member but significantly influenced its sound.
The songās hypnotic riff and unique structure have made it a staple in live performances and one of the bandās most recognized songs.
The album Songs for the Deaf is designed as a conceptual road trip through the desert, with No One Knows serving as a pivotal moment in its narrative.