The song should not be confused with "Wicker Man" from Dickinson's solo career, the lyrics of which are more closely themed around the film.

Dickinson thought that the riff sounded good and he began to add a catchy melody to the song.

[2] Dickinson said the process of writing the lyrics attempted to get "the same vibe I get when I stand onstage in front of all these people and they start singing and chanting with you".

[citation needed] The single's cover art was by Mark Wilkinson, after a piece by the famed artist Derek Riggs was rejected.

From 2011 to 2018, the Washington Capitals of the National Hockey League used a portion of "The Wicker Man" as their goal celebration song.

The limited edition contained 2 CDs and a double-faced poster, as well as a selection of live songs recorded during the Ed Hunter Tour.