Released October 26, 1999 Recorded 1999 Label Flip/Elektra | Format CD single Length 4:41 | |
Genre Nu metal
alternative metal | ||
"Mudshovel" (originally "Mudshuvel") is a song by American alternative metal band Staind. It was released in October 1999 as the third single from their 1999 studio album, Dysfunction, and served as a breakthrough hit. It reached number 14 on the US Modern Rock Charts and number 10 on the Mainstream Rock charts. It originally appeared in a heavier form as 'Mudshuvel' on their debut album Tormented. The new version was given a radio-friendly makeover with beefed up production, no screaming, palm muted guitar and double bass drums in the chorus.
Contents
Content
Musically, "Mudshovel" relies on a distinctive three-note bass line that shifts into a rumbling low. It opens the song and is preceded by tense vocals and a heavy ensemble of flanging guitar and drums which make up the verses. The chorus features chunky guitar riffs and a repeated murmuring of the song title.
Music video
A music video was filmed for the single. It mostly consists of the band playing in an enclosed arena on an elevated glass stage above a mosh pit and frontman Aaron Lewis clutching a loose gate. Interspersed with this is a storyline involving a man being cheated on by his wife/girlfriend, only for her to be cheated on as well in the ending.