'The First Born Is Dead' was the second studio album released by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. Recorded in Berlin, this album was originally released on 3 June 1985, and was co-produced by Nick Cave, the band and Flood.

On the album, Cave explores his fascination with the American South, with references ranging from Elvis Presley to "Blind" Lemon Jefferson.

The album's name is a reference to Jesse Garon Presley, the stillborn identical twin of Elvis Presley, and "Wanted Man" was Cave's own take on a song Bob Dylan wrote for Johnny Cash. Dylan gave his permission for the lyrics to be changed, with Cave's interpretation referencing his friends.