About the song
The Rolling Stones’ “Start Me Up” is a timeless classic that continues to energize audiences decades after its release. Featured on their 1981 album Tattoo You, this track marks a high point in the band’s career, combining their rock roots with a fresh, dynamic sound that resonated with a new generation of fans.
Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Start Me Up” showcases the band’s ability to stay relevant while delivering a powerful rock anthem. The song is celebrated for its infectious guitar riff, which opens the track with a burst of energy that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. This iconic riff, played by Keith Richards, is one of the most recognizable in rock history and sets the stage for a song that exudes vitality and excitement.
Jagger’s spirited vocals, combined with the song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, create an irresistible invitation to get up and move. “Start Me Up” achieved considerable commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 7 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s popularity was further enhanced by its widespread use in media and advertising, which helped cement its place as a staple in classic rock radio and an enduring favorite among fans.
The track’s success was also bolstered by its vibrant music video, which featured the band performing energetically on stage, capturing the spirit of the song and the band’s dynamic presence. “Start Me Up” remains a quintessential example of The Rolling Stones’ ability to craft songs that are both timeless and relevant, showcasing their knack for blending classic rock elements with a modern twist.
Listening to “Start Me Up,” one can appreciate how The Rolling Stones managed to infuse their music with a fresh energy while staying true to their rock heritage. It’s a track that not only highlights their enduring appeal but also serves as a testament to their remarkable ability to evolve and connect with audiences across different eras.
Video
Lyrics
If you start me up
If you start me up, I’ll never stop
If you start me up
If you start me up, I’ll never stop
I’ve been running hot
You got me wrecking, gonna blow my top
If you start me up
If you start me up, I’ll never stop
Never stop, never stop, never stop
You make a grown man cry
You make a grown man cry
You make a grown man cry
Spread out the oil, the gasoline
I walk smooth, ride in a mean, mean machine
Start it up
If you start me up
Kick on the starter give it all you got, you got, you got
I can’t compete
With the riders in the other heats
If you rough it up
If you like it you can slide it up
Slide it up, slide it up, slide it up
Don’t make a grown man cry
Don’t make a grown man cry
Don’t make a grown man cry
My eyes dilate, my lips won’t wait
My hands are greasy, she’s a mean, mean machine
Start it up
Start me up
Ah, give it all you gotta
You gotta to never, never, never stop
Slide it up, woo!
Oh, baby, just slide it up
Slide it up, slide it up, never, never, never
You make a grown man cry
You make a grown man cry
You make a grown man cry
Ride like the wind at double speed
I’ll take you places that you’ve never, never seen
Start it up
Let me tell you, we will never stop, never stop
Never, never, never stop
Start me up
Never stop, never stop
You, you, you make a grown man cry
You, you make a dead man come
You, you, you make a dead man come
You, you, you make a…