"Blackmail the Universe" is one of the most political songs Megadeth has, and is filled with attitude.[3][4][5] The song starts with a news report of Air Force One being shot down.[1][6][7] It features lyrics about nuclear war, terrorism and tensions in the Middle East.[8][9] The song marks a return to the thrash metal that the band played in their early days.[3][10] It has been described as similar to the song and album Rust in Peace, not only lyrically, but musically too.[11][12][13][14]
"Blackmail the Universe" has been played 133 times live by the band.[15] The concert tour for The System Has Failed was titled after this song.[16]
Music video
A music video for "Blackmail the Universe" was recorded on October 9, 2005, and was featured on That One Night: Live in Buenos Aires[17] (although it was also released separately).[18] The video was directed by Michael J. Sarna.[1]
Reception
"Blackmail the Universe" has been noted as a highlight of the album by many reviewers.[7][11][19][20] It has been described as one of, if not "...the (band's) best since Countdown to Extinction".[7][21][22] BraveWords praised Chris Poland's guitar work on the song.[23] The song is the most streamed from the album on Spotify.[24]
Other appearances
"Blackmail the Universe" has appeared on many Megadeth releases, including the greatest hits album Warheads on Foreheads and the aforementioned That One Night live album.[25]