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Lyrics of Rorke’s Drift by Sabaton

News that came that morning told that the main force had been slain
Chance for peace and justice gone and all talks had been in vain
A prince had been offended and he has gone the path of war
Now that 1500 men are dead and the Zulu’s at the door

Zulus attack,
Fight back to back
Show them no mercy and
Fire at will
Kill or be killed
Facing, awaiting

A hostile spear, a new frontier, the end is near
There’s no surrender
The lines must hold, their story told, Rorke’s Drift controlled

Later on that fateful day as they head towards the drift
Stacking boxes, fortify, preparations must be swift
Spears and shields of oxen hide facing uniforms and guns
As the rifles fire, echoes higher, beating like the sound of drums

Zulus attack,
Fight back to back
Show them no mercy and
Fire at will
Kill or be killed
Facing, awaiting

A hostile spear, a new frontier, the end is near
There’s no surrender
The lines must hold, their story told, Rorke’s Drift controlled

1879, when a few held the line
Back to back, attack, the dead are stacked
Where a last stand was made, and the empire saved
Back to back, attack, the dead are stacked

Zulus attack,
Fight back to back
Show them no mercy and
Fire at will
Kill or be killed
Facing, awaiting

A hostile spear, a new frontier, the end is near
There’s no surrender
The lines must hold, their story told, Rorke’s Drift controlled

Historical Background

In short: The song is about the defense of Rorke’s Drift during the Anglo-Zulu War in 1879.

Rorke’s Drift – The Last Stand That Defied an Empire

Some battles are fought for conquest. Others are fought for survival.

Rorke’s Drift by Sabaton tells the legendary story of the Battle of Rorke’s Drift (1879)—when 150 British soldiers held off 4,000 Zulu warriors in one of the greatest last stands in history.

This is how a small outpost in Africa became a symbol of defiance and courage.

Prelude – The British Disaster at Isandlwana

“News that came that morning told that the main force had been slain.”

On January 22, 1879, at Isandlwana, the Zulu army annihilated a British force of 1,800 men—the worst defeat ever suffered by a modern European army at the hands of native warriors.

  • The British underestimated the Zulu warriors.
  • Zulu tactics, speed, and discipline overwhelmed the British line.
  • Only a few survivors escaped to warn the British outpost at Rorke’s Drift.

“Now that 1500 men are dead and the Zulu’s at the door.”

The Zulu army, fresh from victory, turned to attack Rorke’s Drift, where only 150 British soldiers stood ready to fight.

The Defense – 150 vs. 4,000

“Spears and shields of oxen hide facing uniforms and guns.”

Led by Lieutenant John Chard and Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead, the defenders fortified the mission station using mealie bags and wooden crates.

“Zulus attack, fight back to back, show them no mercy and fire at will!”

On the afternoon of January 22, 1879, waves of Zulu warriors attacked the outpost.

  • The British fired volley after volley, holding their ground.
  • Zulu warriors charged again and again, breaking through the walls.
  • The British fought hand-to-hand, using bayonets and rifles as clubs.

“Kill or be killed, facing, awaiting, a hostile spear!”

Through the night, the Zulu warriors kept attacking—but the British refused to break.

The Aftermath – Victory Against All Odds

“The lines must hold, their story told, Rorke’s Drift controlled.”

By dawn on January 23, the Zulu forces retreated, leaving behind hundreds of dead warriors.

Against impossible odds, the British had held the outpost.

The Most Victoria Crosses Ever Awarded for a Single Battle

“1879, when a few held the line, back to back, attack, the dead are stacked!”

For their incredible bravery, 11 British soldiers were awarded the Victoria Cross—the most ever for a single battle.

Want to Learn More?

The Lesson?

Some fights are lost before they begin. Others become legends against all odds.

And in 1879, at Rorke’s Drift, 150 men stood against thousands and refused to fall.

About Niels

Niels believes every historical event has its own rhythm, every era its unique melody, and every story its untold song. He brings history to life, capturing the essence of pivotal moments, fascinating figures, and the cultural transformations that shaped our world. His work makes history not only informative but deeply emotional and memorable.

On this website, you’ll discover his latest songs, insights into his creative process, and curated playlists of his favorite historical tunes. Join Niels on this melodic adventure where every note tells a story, and every story inspires a song.


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