"Battle Hymn" is a heavy metal song written by the American band Manowar. The 6:56 minutes long song was included in the debut album of the band, Battle Hymns, in 1982. Written by Friedman/DeMaio, is considered by many heavy metal and Manowar fans as one of the band's best songs, as well as an epitome of the term "epic metal". At the 2005 Earthshaker Fest, the song was performed by a total of eight band members, both past and present.
It is easily recognized by its intro, a characteristic refrain with the singer Eric Adams shouting the word "kill!", and its guitar solo.
The song's lyrics are influenced by medieval wars and describe the imaginary charge of 10,000 riders and swarms of footsoldiers onto an enemy unit.
