Queen

Lyrics

[Intro]
Taking off

[Verse 1]
I was told a million times of all the troubles in my way
Mind you grow a little wiser, little better every day
But if I crossed a million rivers and I rode a million miles
Then I'd still be where I started, bread and butter for a smile
Well, I sold a million mirrors in a shop in Alley Way
But I never saw my face in any window any day
Now they say your folks are telling you, “Be a superstar”
But I tell you, just be satisfied and stay right where you are
[Chorus]
Keep yourself alive (Yeah), keep yourself alive
Take you all your time and-a money, honey, you'll survive
[Verse 2]
Well, I've loved a million women in a belladonic haze
And I ate a million dinners brought to me on silver trays
Give me everythin' I need to feed my body and my soul
And I'll grow a little bigger, maybe that can be my goal
I was told a million times of all the people in my way
How I had to keep on tryin' and get better every day
But if I crossed a million rivers and I rode a million miles
Then I'd still be where I started, same as when I started
[Chorus]
Keep yourself alive (Come on), keep yourself alive
Take you all your time and-a money, honey, you'll survive (shake)
[Drum Solo]

[Guitar Solo]
(Ow!)

[Chorus]
Keep yourself alive (whoa), keep yourself alive
Oh, take you all your time and-a money to keep me satisfied

[Bridge: Roger Taylor & Brian May]
Do you think you're better every day?
No, I just think I'm two steps nearer to my grave
[Chorus]
Keep yourself alive (come on), keep yourself alive
You take your time and take my money, keep yourself alive
Keep yourself alive (come on), keep yourself alive
All you people, keep yourself alive

Keep yourself alive (come on, come on), keep yourself alive
Take you all your time and-a money to keep me satisfied
Keep yourself alive, keep yourself alive
All you people, keep yourself alive
[Outro]
Take you all your time and money, honey, you will survive
Keep you satisfied, keep yourself alive…

Queen has been one of the most influential bands in the history of rock music. With their charismatic frontman Freddie Mercury, the legendary guitarist Brian May, the virtuoso bassist John Deacon, and the powerful drummer Roger Taylor, they have created some of the most iconic songs of all time. One of these songs is "Keep Yourself Alive."

"Keep Yourself Alive" is the opening track of Queen's self-titled debut album, released in 1973. The song was written by Brian May, the brilliant guitarist who would later become famous for his unique sound and style. May wrote the song after the band had been formed but before John Deacon joined. He had penned the lyrics as ironic and tongue-in-cheek, but their sense was completely changed when Freddie Mercury sang them.

About Keep Yourself Alive

"Keep Yourself Alive" is a classic rock song that showcases Queen's musical and creative abilities. The song has a driving rhythm, a catchy melody, and powerful guitar riffs that have become synonymous with Queen's sound. The lyrics of the song are about perseverance and self-belief, encouraging the listener to keep going and not give up on their dreams.

The song starts with a brief guitar riff played by Brian May, followed by a chord progression that builds up the tension. Then Freddie Mercury comes in with his powerful vocals, singing the opening lines "I was told a million times of all the troubles in my way. How I had to keep on trying, little better every day."

The song has a memorable chorus that features May and Taylor singing the vocal bridge, which adds depth and dimension to the song. The lyrics of the chorus go "Keep yourself alive, keep yourself alive. It'll take you all your time and a money to keep me satisfied."

The song then goes into a guitar solo by May that showcases his technical skills and unique sound. The solo starts with a slow and melodic section, then builds up to a fast and furious climax that showcases the full range of May's abilities.

"Keep Yourself Alive" is an important song in Queen's catalog, as it shows the band's musical and creative abilities. The song was a great way of telling people what Queen was about in those days, as Freddie Mercury said. It showcases the band's unique sound, with Brian May's distinctive guitar sound, Freddie Mercury's powerful vocals, and the tight rhythm section of John Deacon and Roger Taylor.

The song has become a staple of Queen's live shows, with the band performing it on many of their tours. It has also been covered by many other artists, who have been influenced by Queen's sound and style.

In summary, "Keep Yourself Alive" is a classic rock song that showcases Queen's musical and creative abilities. It has a catchy melody, powerful lyrics, and memorable guitar riffs that have become synonymous with Queen's sound. The song is an important part of Queen's catalog and a testament to their legacy as one of the greatest bands of all time.

• Release Date: July 6, 1973
• Artist: Queen