Who Wrote the Song Last Resort?

By Alice Nichols

If you were a teenager in the early 2000s, chances are you’ve heard the song “Last Resort” by Papa Roach. This nu-metal classic was a staple on MTV and rock radio stations alike. But have you ever wondered who wrote this angst-filled anthem?

Well, wonder no more. “Last Resort” was written by Papa Roach’s lead vocalist Jacoby Shaddix along with the rest of the band members – Jerry Horton on guitar, Tobin Esperance on bass, and Dave Buckner on drums.

The song was released as the lead single from Papa Roach’s debut album “Infest” in 2000. It quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the US Modern Rock Tracks chart and number four on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.

So, what inspired Shaddix to write such a powerful song? In an interview with Songfacts, he revealed that “Last Resort” was written about suicide prevention. He said, “I had some friends who were going through some tough times and I just wanted to write something that would help them get through it.”

The lyrics of “Last Resort” are raw and emotive. The opening lines – “Cut my life into pieces / This is my last resort” – immediately grab your attention and set the tone for the rest of the song. Shaddix’s delivery is intense and passionate, making it easy to understand why this song connected with so many people.

Another reason for the success of “Last Resort” was its memorable guitar riff. The opening notes played by Horton are instantly recognizable and have become synonymous with Papa Roach’s sound.

In addition to its commercial success, “Last Resort” also received critical acclaim. It was nominated for Best Hard Rock Performance at the 2001 Grammy Awards but lost out to Rage Against The Machine’s “Guerrilla Radio.”

In conclusion, “Last Resort” is a powerful song that has stood the test of time. Its message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity continues to resonate with listeners today. Jacoby Shaddix and the rest of Papa Roach created a timeless classic that will be remembered for years to come.