About the song
“Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones, released on August 14, 1981, stands as one of the most iconic tracks in the band’s illustrious career. Featured on their album “Tattoo You”, this song marked a significant moment for the Stones as they transitioned into the 1980s, bringing their classic rock sound into the modern era with a vibrant, fresh energy.
The song’s distinctive guitar riff, played by Keith Richards, is immediately recognizable and sets the tone for the track. It’s a driving, infectious groove that encapsulates the essence of “Start Me Up”—a powerful anthem about energy, excitement, and the thrill of starting anew. The lyrics, performed with Mick Jagger’s signature swagger, revolve around themes of desire and the need for a fresh start, resonating with the universal appeal of embarking on new beginnings.
“Start Me Up” was both a commercial and critical success. It reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing The Rolling Stones’ ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while maintaining their distinctive style. The song’s success was a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and their skill in blending classic rock with the emerging sounds of the early ’80s.
The impact of “Start Me Up” extends beyond its commercial success. Its energetic vibe and catchy chorus made it a staple on rock radio and a frequent choice for sports events and advertising, further embedding it into popular culture. The track’s infectious rhythm and memorable hook helped it become one of the most enduring songs in The Rolling Stones’ repertoire, celebrated for its ability to invigorate and energize listeners.
Furthermore, “Start Me Up” played a crucial role in revitalizing The Rolling Stones’ career during a period when many established bands were struggling to remain relevant. Its success underscored the band’s resilience and adaptability, proving that even after decades in the industry, they could still capture the zeitgeist and appeal to a new generation of fans.
In summary, “Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones is more than just a song; it’s a powerful emblem of the band’s ability to reinvent themselves while staying true to their rock roots. Released in 1981 on the album “Tattoo You”, it encapsulates the thrill of new beginnings with its unforgettable riff and dynamic performance. The track’s lasting influence and continued popularity underscore its place as a classic in rock history.
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Lyrics
If you start me upIf you start me up, I’ll never stopIf you start me upIf you start me up, I’ll never stopI’ve been running hotYou got me wrecking, gonna blow my topIf you start me upIf you start me up, I’ll never stopNever stop, never stop, never stopYou make a grown man cryYou make a grown man cryYou make a grown man crySpread out the oil, the gasolineI walk smooth, ride in a mean, mean machineStart it upIf you start me upKick on the starter give it all you got, you got, you gotI can’t competeWith the riders in the other heatsIf you rough it upIf you like it you can slide it upSlide it up, slide it up, slide it upDon’t make a grown man cryDon’t make a grown man cryDon’t make a grown man cryMy eyes dilate, my lips won’t waitMy hands are greasy, she’s a mean, mean machineStart it upStart me upAh, give it all you gottaYou gotta to never, never, never stopSlide it up, woo!Oh, baby, just slide it upSlide it up, slide it up, never, never, neverYou make a grown man cryYou make a grown man cryYou make a grown man cryRide like the wind at double speedI’ll take you places that you’ve never, never seenStart it upLet me tell you, we will never stop, never stopNever, never, never stopStart me upNever stop, never stopYou, you, you make a grown man cryYou, you make a dead man comeYou, you, you make a dead man comeYou, you, you make a…