“Start Me Up” is one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic rock anthems, released in 1981 as the lead single from their album Tattoo You. With its infectious riff, driving rhythm, and Mick Jagger’s charismatic vocals, the song became an instant hit and remains a staple of the band’s live performances. “Start Me Up” showcases the Stones’ signature blend of rock and roll swagger, fueled by Keith Richards’ unforgettable guitar riff and a powerful, upbeat energy.
Lyrically, “Start Me Up” is built around the metaphor of starting an engine, which represents the excitement and intensity of a romantic relationship. Jagger sings with playful innuendo, “If you start me up, I’ll never stop,” expressing the unstoppable energy that comes with being turned on by a lover. The lyrics maintain a carefree, celebratory tone throughout, reflecting the band’s exuberance and attitude. The song’s repetitive chorus, “You make a grown man cry,” adds to the dynamic tension, blending passion and intensity with a sense of fun and irreverence.
Musically, the song is driven by Keith Richards’ iconic, instantly recognizable guitar riff, which sets the tone from the very beginning. The riff is simple yet powerful, creating a pulsating groove that hooks listeners immediately. Charlie Watts’ drumming is tight and steady, while Bill Wyman’s bass adds depth to the rhythm section, creating a rock-solid foundation. The song’s instrumentation is classic Stones: gritty, energetic, and designed to get the audience moving.
Mick Jagger’s vocal performance is full of swagger and charisma. His delivery is confident, playful, and slightly provocative, perfectly matching the energy of the music. The interplay between Jagger’s vocals and Richards’ guitar work gives the song its electric, dynamic feel, making it one of the band’s most memorable and enduring tracks.
“Start Me Up” was a massive commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and charting in several countries worldwide. The song’s catchy, sing-along chorus and irresistible riff helped solidify it as a rock anthem. Over the years, “Start Me Up” has become synonymous with major events, from sports stadiums to corporate commercials, including the memorable use of the song in a 1995 Microsoft campaign for the launch of Windows 95.
The song also played a key role in Tattoo You, an album that reinvigorated The Rolling Stones’ career in the early 1980s. Originally recorded during sessions for previous albums, “Start Me Up” evolved from a reggae-inspired track into the rock classic it became. This transformation, driven by Richards’ guitar work, reflects the band’s ability to take simple ideas and turn them into timeless hits.
In conclusion, “Start Me Up” is a quintessential Rolling Stones track, combining their trademark rock and roll grit with a catchy, unforgettable riff and high-energy performance. Its blend of sexual innuendo, raw energy, and musical tightness makes it one of the band’s most beloved songs, and its presence in pop culture has only solidified its status as a rock anthem for generations to come.
