Ball and Chain (Social Distortion song)

"Ball and Chain" is a song by Southern California punk rock band Social Distortion. Written by Mike Ness in 1987, it is featured on their self-titled album released in 1990, as well as on Live at the Roxy (1998).

"Ball and Chain"
Single by Social Distortion
from the album Social Distortion
Released	March 27, 1990
Recorded	1989
Genre	Cowpunk[1] honky-tonk[2]
Length	5:44
Label	Epic
Songwriter(s)	Mike Ness
Producer(s)	Dave Jerden
Social Distortion singles chronology
"Story of My Life" (1990) "Ball and Chain" (1990) "Ring of Fire" (1990)

In the words of Ness, "Ball and Chain" is "a hard luck story,"^[3] a forceful cry, a lament, a plea, a "folk prayer."^[4]

The music video was directed by Tony van den Ende and edited by Scott C. Wilson.

Charts

Chart (1990)	Peak position
US Alternative Airplay (Billboard)[5]	13