“Death by Rock and Roll” is an homage to people of the Rock and Roll genre that have died.
It’s a dedication to The Pretty Reckless' long time producer and manager Kato Khandwala who died on April 25, 2018 following a motorcycle crash. Frontwoman Taylor Momsen also said that Khandwala was her best friend.

The notorious Club 27, a group of artists, that have died aged 27, is honored as well. Some of the most famous Club 27 members are referenced in the song, Amy Winehouse and Kurt Cobain.

Lead vocalist Taylor Momsen turns 27 on July 26th 2020, merely 42 days after the release of the song.

The song is a reinterpretation of an early 2000 demo by the band FAMOUS, which features all of The Pretty Reckless members except Taylor Momsen.