10 Best Metal Ballads Of All Time

Tool were never a band that really took itself too seriously. Despite having some of the most rhythmically and lyrically complex ideas across tracks like Lateralus, you don't necessarily have to dwell on the poetic musings of something like Stinkfist and Hooker With a Penis to really get their messages. That goofiness doesn't really stop on 10,000 Days given the Rosetta Stoned suite, but Wings for Marie strikes a far more personal place.

Being one of the main inspirations for the title, this song is dedicated to Maynard James Keenan's mother Judith, who had suffered a stroke and continued to live for 27 years (approx. 10,000 days) before eventually dying. Though Maynard was critical of some of his mothers' beliefs on songs like Judith from a Perfect Circle, there's no venom to be had on this outing. Instead, this is just Maynard slowly grieving the loss of one of the most important people in his life, not so much condoning her actions but commending her commitment to her long life and faith.

For as long as the actual song is played out, it's really worth it to hear Keenan's journey play out in real time, as he goes from some anger and annoyance to understanding and eventually moving on from this tragic loss. Wherever she is now, here's hoping that Marie would be looking out for her son now.