About the song
“Keep Yourself Alive” is a song that marks the beginning of what would become one of the most influential and iconic careers in rock history. Released in 1973, this track was not just the debut single for Queen, but also a pivotal moment for Freddie Mercury and his bandmates. It appeared on their self-titled album, “Queen”, the first full-length release that introduced the world to the band’s distinctive blend of progressive rock, theatricality, and virtuosity.
The song itself is a testament to Freddie Mercury’s songwriting talents and Queen’s unique sound. “Keep Yourself Alive” features a dynamic arrangement, full of intricate guitar work from Brian May, powerful rhythms from Roger Taylor and John Deacon, and, of course, Mercury’s unmistakable, flamboyant vocal delivery. The track’s upbeat tempo and vibrant energy give it a sense of youthful defiance, underscoring the band’s attitude towards life and music.
Lyrically, “Keep Yourself Alive” is a song about survival and perseverance, encapsulating the struggles and challenges faced by individuals trying to navigate through life. With its straightforward but striking message, it urges listeners to “keep yourself alive” despite the hardships, embracing life with all its ups and downs. While the song could be seen as a reflection of the band’s own early struggles in the music industry, it also resonates as a broader commentary on the resilience of the human spirit.
Although “Keep Yourself Alive” wasn’t an immediate chart-topping hit, it set the stage for the band’s future success. It’s often viewed as an introduction to the sound and ethos of Queen, blending Mercury’s theatrical flair with the band’s progressive rock roots. The song’s influence has only grown with time, with many fans and critics now regarding it as one of the essential tracks in the band’s catalog. Its layered production and energetic performance are indicative of the band’s willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of rock music.
On a societal level, “Keep Yourself Alive” stands as a symbol of the early 1970s rock scene—an era defined by a new wave of bold and experimental musicians. While Queen did not yet have the massive global following they would later acquire, the song embodies the spirit of innovation and ambition that defined their career. The track helped establish Queen as a force to be reckoned with, both in terms of musicianship and stage presence.
Even decades after its release, “Keep Yourself Alive” continues to resonate with listeners. Its themes of survival, perseverance, and individuality are timeless. As Freddie Mercury and Queen grew into one of the greatest and most enduring acts in music history, the song’s significance only increased, symbolizing the spirit of a band that was destined for greatness.
In sum, “Keep Yourself Alive” is more than just the debut single of Queen; it is a song that encapsulates the band’s ethos and marks the beginning of a musical journey that would forever change the landscape of rock music. Its legacy remains intact, standing as both a personal manifesto and a cultural milestone in the history of rock.
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Lyrics
Take offI was told a million timesOf all the troubles in my wayMind you grow a little wiserLittle better every dayBut if I crossed a million riversAnd I rode a million milesThen I’d still be where I startedBread and butter for a smileWell I sold a million mirrorsIn a shopping alley wayBut I never saw my faceIn any window any dayNow they say your folks are telling youBe a super starBut I tell you just be satisfiedStay right where you areKeep yourself alive, yeahKeep yourself aliveOoh, it’ll take you all your time and moneyHoney you’ll surviveOwWell I’ve loved a million womenIn a belladonic hazeAnd I ate a million dinnersBrought to me on silver traysGive me everything I needTo feed my body and my soulAnd I’ll grow a little biggerMaybe that can be my goalI was told a million timesOf all the people in my wayHow I had to keep on tryingAnd get better every dayBut if I crossed a million riversAnd I rode a million milesThen I’d still be where I startedSame as when I startedKeep yourself alive, come onKeep yourself aliveOoh, it’ll take you all your time and money honeyYou’ll survive, shakeOwKeep yourself alive, wowKeep yourself aliveOh, it’ll take you all your time and moneyTo keep me satisfiedDo you think you’re better every day?No, I just think I’m two steps nearer to my graveKeep yourself alive, c’monKeep yourself aliveMm, you take your time and take more moneyKeep yourself aliveKeep yourself aliveC’mon keep yourself aliveAll you people keep yourself aliveKeep yourself aliveC’mon c’mon keep yourself aliveIt’ll take you all your time and a moneyTo keep me satisfiedKeep yourself aliveKeep yourself aliveAll you people keep yourself aliveTake you all your time and money honeyYou will surviveKeep you satisfied