About the song
Released in 1981 as the lead single from The Rolling Stones’ album Tattoo You, “Start Me Up” quickly became one of the band’s most iconic and enduring tracks. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song blends the timeless elements of rock ‘n’ roll with a sharp, energetic groove that makes it impossible not to move along with the beat. With its infectious riff, pulsing rhythm, and bold lyrics, “Start Me Up” became a quintessential anthem for the band, showcasing The Rolling Stones’ knack for creating high-energy music that resonates with listeners of all ages.
The song kicks off with an instantly recognizable guitar riff—courtesy of Richards—that is simple, yet powerful. The riff serves as the foundation of the track, driving it forward with a steady intensity that mirrors the song’s anthemic energy. The rhythm section, with Charlie Watts on drums and Bill Wyman on bass, provides a solid backbone that propels the song’s dynamic beat. Jagger’s voice enters, full of swagger and confidence, declaring, “If you start me up, I’ll never stop.” His delivery, as always, is sharp and charismatic, drawing listeners into the song’s infectious energy and its promise of excitement and liberation.
Lyrically, “Start Me Up” is a celebration of energy, desire, and enthusiasm. The narrator’s repeated refrain, “If you start me up, I’ll never stop,” is an expression of the unrelenting spirit of rock ‘n’ roll, where the music itself becomes a force of invincibility and momentum. The lyrics also touch on themes of connection and urgency, with the idea that once the engine is running, there’s no stopping the power that comes with it. The repeated references to starting up create a sense of momentum and anticipation, which matches the dynamic drive of the song itself. This idea of starting and never stopping parallels the relentless pursuit of freedom, fun, and vitality that rock ‘n’ roll represents.
The song’s musical structure is built around its catchy, repetitive riff, which creates a sense of urgency and movement. The rhythm section, with its syncopated beats, further emphasizes the sense of momentum, while the occasional guitar fills add texture and complexity to the track. The punchy brass section adds a layer of excitement and larger-than-life energy that elevates the song from a simple rock track to an anthem of vibrant power. The chorus—with its explosive hook—is infectious, and its call-and-response quality invites listeners to sing along and become part of the performance.
Upon its release, “Start Me Up” became an immediate hit, reaching #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning The Rolling Stones a new generation of fans. The song’s upbeat, instant appeal and bold sound helped the band transition into the 1980s with a renewed sense of relevance and vigor. It became an anthem not just for The Rolling Stones, but for anyone looking for that spark of energy and excitement that rock ‘n’ roll embodies. The track’s catchy melody and explosive sound ensured that it would remain a fan favorite and a live performance staple for years to come.
The legacy of “Start Me Up” is immense. The song has been featured in films, TV shows, advertisements, and sports events, making it one of The Rolling Stones’ most commercially successful tracks. Its ability to convey pure, unadulterated energy and exhilaration has made it a cultural touchstone that continues to energize audiences around the world. The song’s inclusion in the band’s setlist during live performances is always met with enthusiasm, as it perfectly captures the live-wire intensity that The Rolling Stones are known for.
Today, “Start Me Up” remains a timeless anthem of rock ‘n’ roll, a perfect reflection of The Rolling Stones’ ability to craft music that is both accessible and dynamic. Its infectious rhythm, powerful vocals, and ageless energy continue to make it one of the band’s most enduring songs, inspiring new generations of fans to embrace the vibrant freedom of rock music. Whether heard on the radio, at a sports game, or at a party, “Start Me Up” is a reminder of the timeless power of rock ‘n’ roll to energize, excite, and unite people.