: To avoid protests from feminist groups and to secure radio airplay, the single was often shortened to "Only Women" by Atlantic Records.
: It is now widely regarded as a liberating anthem that brought awareness to social issues rarely discussed in rock music during the mid-70s.
: Despite the controversy, it became a major hit, reaching #1 in Canada and #12 on the US Billboard Hot 100 . Only Women Bleed
: The album version is significantly longer (5:49) than the radio single and features more elaborate orchestral arrangements.
"Only Women Bleed" is a 1975 power ballad by Alice Cooper, co-written with guitarist Dick Wagner for the album Welcome to My Nightmare . While often misunderstood upon its release, the song is a poignant commentary on the emotional and physical toll of and the subservient role of women in society at the time . Key Facts About the Song : To avoid protests from feminist groups and
: Contrary to common misconceptions that it refers to menstruation, Alice Cooper and Dick Wagner have explicitly stated it is about domestic violence and emotional "bleeding" from the heart and soul.
: The song has been covered by numerous artists, most notably by Etta James on her 1978 album Deep in the Night . Deepening the Understanding : The album version is significantly longer (5:49)
: Cooper included the ballad in his Welcome to My Nightmare stage show as a "soft, romantic, and touching moment" to contrast with his more macabre theatrical themes.