VIDEO | "Start Me Up" by The Rolling Stones

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"Start Me Up" by The Rolling Stones

Last updated 📅 2025-04-19

Start it up! Feel the electrifying power of The Rolling Stones' iconic 1981 hard rock anthem, "Start Me Up." Kicking off with Keith Richards' legendary guitar riff, this massive hit from Tattoo You became one of their most recognizable and enduring signature songs globally.

Released as the lead single from their chart-topping 1981 album Tattoo You, "Start Me Up" revitalized The Rolling Stones' sound for the 80s. Originating from earlier sessions, its transformation into a driving hard rock powerhouse, fueled by that unforgettable riff and Mick Jagger's energetic vocals, proved irresistible.

Built on one of rock's greatest guitar hooks and propelled by Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman's solid groove, "Start Me Up" is pure rock and roll energy. This 1981 hard rock classic, boosted by early MTV play, remains a stadium-shaking anthem and a cornerstone of the Stones' vast catalog.

SONG MEANING: The song uses automotive metaphors ("Start me up," "Spread out the oil," "Lubricate") as thinly veiled double entendres for sexual arousal and intercourse. The lyrics express intense physical desire and boastful confidence ("You make a grown man cry," "You make a dead man come"), celebrating raw sexual energy.

BAND: The Rolling Stones
GENRE: Hard Rock
OTHER: Cruisin Classic
RELEASEDAY: August 14
YEAR: 1981
CATEGORY: All Time Favorite Music
HASHTAGS: #TheRollingStones #HardRock #CruisinClassic #August14

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"The Rolling Stones"

The Rolling Stones, the epitome of rock and roll longevity, defined generations with their blues-based swagger and rebellious attitude. Led by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the British legends remain globally iconic stadium-fillers. Discover the timeless riffs and enduring energy of The Rolling Stones.

Active since 1962, The Rolling Stones' career represents an unparalleled journey through rock history, with activities continuing across many decades. Key creative peaks occurred throughout, including around 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1971, 1978, 1981, and 1986, showcasing remarkable adaptability. Their sound, rooted in rock and roll and blues rock, expanded to encompass hard rock intensity, psychedelic experimentation, raga rock textures, boogie rock grooves, soulful explorations, disco beats, dance-rock energy, and tender soft rock moments. This constant evolution produced countless cruising classics and demonstrated The Rolling Stones’ mastery over rock's changing landscape. Their vast catalog includes many of the most iconic and defining songs in rock and roll history. Instantly recognizable guitar riffs power anthems of youthful rebellion, raw desire, and enduring stage presence...

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BAND | The Rolling Stones

"One Hit (to the Body)" by The Rolling Stones

Feel the impact of The Rolling Stones' hard-hitting 1986 rock track, "One Hit (to the Body)"! The powerful opener from Dirty Work, this song features intense guitar interplay, including a contribution from Jimmy Page, delivering a raw, aggressive hard rock statement.

Released as a single from the 1986 album Dirty Work, "One Hit (to the Body)" showcased The Rolling Stones embracing a contemporary hard rock sound. Featuring fiery guitar exchanges between Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood, and guest Jimmy Page, the track captured the intense energy of the band...

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