White Wedding — John Cena Lyrics

"Billy Idol's "White Wedding" is a song that explores complex emotions and societal commeentary under the guise of a wedding theme. The title "little sister" refers not to an actual sibling but to a former lover who has hastily entered into a marriage, sparking a range of feelings in the narrator. Idol himself has noted that the song touches on themes of leaving home, confronting new life challenges, and the inherent unfairness and danger of the world. This reflection is inspired by Idol's own life changes, including his move from England and the unconventional life path he chose​.

The phrase "Hey little sister, shotgun," mentioned in the sing, does not refer to firearms but rather to the concept of a shotgun wedding, suggesting the woman's quick marriage possibly due to pregnancy. Idol's sarcastic use of "white wedding" challenges the traditional notion of marriage, especially the ideal of the bride's purity, implying his former lover's far-from-innocent status and his lingering resentment over their breakup​.

Moreover, the song is not as supportive of marriage as its use in actual weddings might suggest. Instead, it offers a critique of the societal pressures and expectations surrounding marriage and the pursuit of starting anew through such unions. Idol's reflections in the song, particularly about the world's lack of fairness and safety, aim to depict the challenges of seeking happiness and purity in an imperfect world​​.

"White Wedding" has been influential not just musically but culturally, appearing in various films and even video games, underscoring its enduring appeal and multifaceted interpretation​. The song's distinctive guitar riff, created by Steve Stevens, and its gothic, nightmarish music video further amplify its unique impact on pop culture and music history​.