Kublai Khan (song)

Kublai Khan is a song by the American heavy metal band, Machine Head. It appeared on their 1999 album, The Burning Red. The song is notable for its departure from the band's earlier thrash metal sound, incorporating elements of nu-metal and groove metal.

The lyrics of "Kublai Khan" are inspired by the historical figure Kublai Khan, the fifth Khagan of the Mongol Empire. While not a strictly historical account, the lyrics invoke the power, ruthlessness, and vast empire associated with Kublai Khan's reign. The song's themes touch upon conquest, dominance, and the consequences of unchecked power.

Musically, the song features a heavy, downtuned guitar riff, aggressive vocals, and a prominent rhythm section. Its structure includes verses, a chorus, and a breakdown section, typical of many heavy metal compositions. It’s often cited as one of the more popular and recognized tracks from The Burning Red album, contributing to the album's commercial success.