What makes What God Wants, Part 1 by Roger Waters notable?

The album features an ambitious conceptual framework that resonates with Waters' ongoing examination of power and belief. It was notable for its critical reception, with publications like Rolling Stone highlighting its provocative content, and it contributed to Waters' standing as a significant figure in rock music during the early '90s. Released in 1992, What God Wants, Part 1 is Roger Waters' first major solo project after the dissolution of Pink Floyd. Following his departure from the band in 1985, Waters sought to redefine his artistic voice and thematic focus, setting the stage for a more personal exploration of spirituality and societal issues.

How many songs are on What God Wants, Part 1?

What God Wants, Part 1 has 3 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

What God Wants, Part 1

Roger Waters · 1992

14 min · 3 tracks · opera

A blend of theatrical rock and poignant lyrics exploring faith, desire, and the human condition.

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Top tracks — play these first

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What God Wants, Part I (album version) — This track serves as the centerpiece of the album, encapsulating Waters' exploration of divine desire and human conflict through emotionally charged vocals and intricate instrumentation.
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What God Wants, Part I (video edit) — The video edit distills the song's themes into a compelling visual narrative, enhancing the listener's engagement with its powerful message about faith and control.
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What God Wants, Part III — This track expands on the thematic elements introduced earlier in the album, providing a reflective conclusion that challenges listeners to consider their own beliefs and motivations.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

What God Wants, Part I (album version)

The song's climax introduces a haunting repetition of desires attributed to a higher power while questioning their implications on humanity.

This structural choice emphasizes the cyclical nature of longing and authority, forcing listeners to confront the unsettling intersection of faith and manipulation.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 What God Wants, Part I (video edit) 4:51
2 What God Wants, Part I (album version) 5:52
3 What God Wants, Part III 4:10

What to play next

Listen next

In the Flesh – Live

2000

Go back to

Amused to Death

1992

Full Roger Waters discography Where to start with Roger Waters Artists like Roger Waters

opera progressive rock psychedelic rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata