Alice Cooper - Steven
Alice Cooper’s song “Steven” is one of the most unsettling and psychologically intense tracks in his catalog, released in 1975 on the concept album Welcome to My Nightmare. The song is part of a larger narrative that follows a disturbed character named Steven, whose descent into madness reflects themes of trauma, repression, and fractured identity. Written during a period when Cooper was heavily exploring theatrical horror in music, “Steven” stands out for its eerie atmosphere, whispered vocals, and chilling sound effects, all of which help immerse the listener in the character’s unstable mind.
Within the story of Welcome to My Nightmare, Steven is portrayed as a deeply troubled individual haunted by childhood abuse and violent impulses. The song suggests that he may have committed murder—possibly of a loved one—and is now trapped in a state of denial and psychological breakdown. The repeated plea, “I don’t want to see you go,” carries a disturbing ambiguity, hinting at both guilt and delusion. Musically, the track departs from traditional rock structure, using minimal instrumentation and eerie production techniques to heighten tension. Over time, “Steven” has become a cult favorite among fans and critics for its bold storytelling and its role in shaping the darker, more theatrical side of shock rock, a genre that Alice Cooper helped pioneer.
Alice Cooper Steven Lyrics
I don't want to see you go
I don't even want to be there
I will cover up my eyes
And pray it goes away
You've only lived a minute of your life
I must be dreaming, please stop screaming
I don't like to hear you cry
You just don't know how deep that cuts me
So I will cover up my eyes
And it will go away
You've only lived a minute of your life
I must be dreaming, please stop screaming
Steven!
Steven!
I hear my name!
Steven!
Is someone calling me? I hear my name!
Steven!
That icy breath that whispers screams of pain!
I don't want to feel you die
But if that's the way that God has planned you
I'll put pennies on your eyes
And it will go away
See?
You've only lived a minute of your life
I must be dreaming, please stop screaming
Steven... Is someone calling me? No...
Steven...
I think I hear a voice
It's outside the door!
Steven!
I hear my name!
Steven!
Is someone calling me? I hear my name!
Steven!
What do you want?
Steven!
What do you want?
What do you want?
What do you want?
Steven!
Steven!
Steven!
I hear my name...