Released in October 1983 with “Secret Oktober” on the B-side as the lead single from Duran Duran’s third album, “Seven and the Ragged Tiger,” “Union of the Snake” showcases the band at the height of their fame and creative experimentation. With its enigmatic lyrics, layered synths, and tribal rhythms, the song blends new wave with art-pop sensibility, capturing the adventurous spirit of early ’80s pop.
Coming off the massive global success of Rio (1982), Duran Duran were under pressure to deliver a follow-up that would maintain their momentum. “Union of the Snake” was the first taste of Seven and the Ragged Tiger, and it immediately generated buzz with its moody tone and cryptic lyrics. The song was produced by Alex Sadkin, Ian Little and the band, continuing Duran Duran’s evolution toward more sophisticated, studio-driven soundscapes. It was released just ahead of the full album and became a commercial hit, peaking at No. 3 in the U.S. and No. 3 in the UK.
Musically, “Union of the Snake” is a mid-tempo, synth-heavy track with strong atmospheric elements. It blends new wave, glam rock, and funk-inspired bass lines, layered with lush production and exotic textures. The rhythm is driven by a tribal-like beat, and the song features prominent use of synthesizers and guitar flourishes, creating an otherworldly vibe.
Simon Le Bon’s vocals are mysterious and theatrical, delivered with a sense of urgency and tension that matches the song’s lyrical ambiguity. The band’s tight rhythm section—especially John Taylor’s funky bass and Roger Taylor’s precise drumming—gives the track its pulse, while Nick Rhodes’ synth work adds an ethereal, cinematic feel. The track’s mood is darker than earlier Duran Duran singles, suggesting the band was embracing a more complex sonic palette while still crafting radio-friendly hits.
The lyrics of “Union of the Snake” are famously cryptic and open to interpretation. Le Bon himself once hinted that the song was about the subconscious mind—a “union” between the conscious and unconscious, or perhaps a reference to inner duality and temptation. Fans and critics have also speculated on sexual and political subtexts, but the song’s allure largely lies in its ambiguity. As with many Duran Duran songs, the lyrics are poetic and evocative rather than literal.
Directed by Simon Milne, the music video for “Union of the Snake” was a high-concept production that blended surreal, post-apocalyptic imagery with fantasy elements. It featured elaborate sets, costuming, and a desert setting reminiscent of Mad Max or Dune, aligning with the song’s cryptic mood. Duran Duran were known for their visually striking videos, and this one was no exception. It received heavy rotation on MTV, helping to cement their image as style-forward artists who fused music with cinematic storytelling.
“Union of the Snake” is one of Duran Duran’s most intriguing tracks—layered, cryptic, and sonically rich. Blending new wave grooves with mysterious lyrics and exotic rhythms, it captures the adventurous spirit of early 80s pop innovation. More than just a chart hit, it’s a reminder of how Duran Duran challenged expectations and helped redefine what mainstream pop could sound—and look—like.
