REO Speedwagon

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from another
You been messin' around

[Verse 2]
They say you got a boyfriend
You're out late every weekend
They're talkin' about you
And it's bringin' me down

[Verse 3]
But I know the neighborhood
And talk is cheap when the story is good
And the tales grow taller on down the line

[Pre-Chorus]
But I'm telling you, babe
That I don't think it's true, babe
And even if it is keep this in mind

[​Chorus]
You take it on the run baby
If that's the way you want it baby
Then I don't want you around
I don't believe it
Not for a minute
You're under the gun
So you take it on the run
[Verse 3]
You're thinking up your white lies
You're puttin' on your bedroom eyes
You say you're coming home
But you won't say when

[Pre-Chorus]
But I can feel it comin'
If you leave tonight keep runnin'
And you need never look back again

[Chorus]
You take it on the run baby
If that's the way you want it baby
Then I don't want you around
I don't believe it
Not for a minute
You're under the gun
So you take it on the run

[Guitar Solo (2:04 - 2:53)]

[Chorus]
Take it on the run baby
If that's the way you want it baby
Then I don't want you around
I don't believe it
Not for a minute
You're under the gun
So you take it on the run
Take it on the run baby
If that's the way you want it baby
Then I don't want you around
I don't believe it
Not for a minute
You're under the gun
So you take it on the run
[Verse 1 / Outro]
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from another
You been messin' around

If you’re a fan of classic rock, then you’ve certainly heard of REO Speedwagon, the American rock band that formed in the late '60s. One of their most popular songs is “Take It on the Run,” which was released in 1981 and quickly became a hit. In this article, we’ll explore all the interesting details about this iconic song.

About Take It on the Run

“Take It on the Run” is an iconic song that was released by REO Speedwagon in 1981. At the time, the band had already been around for over a decade, but they were just starting to achieve mainstream success. The song was the second single from their album Hi Infidelity and became the band’s second career top 10 hit. It peaked at number five on the Billboard charts in May 1981 and remains one of the band's most enduring hits.

The song was inspired by the relationship problems and infidelity that the band members were experiencing at the time. Guitarist Gary Richrath wrote the song and explained that he wrote it out of frustration with the effects of gossip and rumors in relationships. The lyrics of the song talk about a person who has been cheated on and is now dealing with the aftermath of betrayal.

“Take It on the Run” is not only one of REO Speedwagon's most popular songs but also one of the most iconic songs of the rock genre. Its catchy tune, engaging lyrics, and unforgettable guitar riffs have made it a classic that has stood the test of time.

The Making of the Song

The songwriting process for “Take It on the Run” started with Gary Richrath, who was the lead guitarist for REO Speedwagon. Richrath was going through a tumultuous period in his personal life and was inspired to write the song based on his experiences.

In an interview, Richrath revealed that he had come up with the lyrics and melody for the song while sitting in a hotel room. He explained that the song came to him quickly and that he was able to write it in just an hour.

The songwriting process was swift, but the actual recording of “Take It on the Run” was anything but easy. The band members spent months working on the song, refining it until they were happy with the final outcome. Even then, the recording process was challenging, with some band members asking for re-takes and making changes until it was just right.

The Impact of the Song

When “Take It on the Run” was released, it quickly became a chart-topping hit. It was the band’s second top 10 hit and helped to propel them to mainstream success. The song remains a classic, with its catchy tune and engaging lyrics still resonating with fans of all ages.

The music video for “Take It on the Run” was also groundbreaking, as it was the ninth music video ever aired on MTV. The video was shown on the first day of broadcasting (August 1, 1981) and helped to launch the band into even greater fame.

Over the years, “Take It on the Run” has been covered by a number of artists, including Tim McGraw. The song has also been featured in a number of movies and TV shows, cementing its place as one of the most iconic songs of the rock genre.

Why It’s Worth Listening To Today

Even though “Take It on the Run” was released over 40 years ago, it remains a classic song that is worth listening to today. The song’s catchy tune, engaging lyrics, and unforgettable guitar riffs make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans today. From its emotional lyrics to its powerful message, “Take It on the Run” is a song that still has the power to move and inspire listeners today.

So if you’re a fan of classic rock or simply looking for a great song to add to your playlist, be sure to check out REO Speedwagon’s “Take It on the Run.”  Its legendary status is well deserved.

• Release Date: November 21, 1980
• Artist: REO Speedwagon