Shakedown
Bob Seger Lyrics
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No matter who you think you know you won't get through
It's a given L.A. law
Someone's faster on the draw
No matter where you hide I'm comin' after you yeah
No matter how the race is run it always ends the same
Another room without a view awaits downtown
You can shake me for a while
Live it up in style
No matter what you do I'm gonna take you down
Shakedown
Breakdown
Takedown
Everybody wants into the crowded line
Breakdown
Takedown
You're busted
Let down
Your guard
Honey, just about the time you're thinkin' it's alright
Breakdown
Takedown
You're busted
This is a town where everyone is reachin' for the top
This is a place where second best will never do
It's okay to want to shine
But once you step across that line
No matter where you hide I'm comin' after you
Shakedown
Breakdown
Takedown
Everybody wants into the crowded line
Breakdown
Takedown
You're busted
Shakedown
Breakdown
Honey, just about the time you're thinkin' it's alright
Breakdown
Takedown
You're busted
Ah, busted
Aw aw
Shakedown
Breakdown
Takedown
Everybody wants into the crowded line
Breakdown
Takedown
You're busted
Shakedown
Breakdown
Honey, just about the time you're thinkin' it's alright
Breakdown
Takedown
You're busted
Shakedown
Breakdown
Takedown
Everybody wants into the crowded line
Breakdown
Takedown
You're busted
Let down
Your guard
Honey, just about the time you're thinkin' it's alright
Breakdown
Takedown
Ah, you're busted
Shakedown
Breakdown
Takedown
Everybody wants into the crowded line
Breakdown
Takedown
You're busted
Let down
Your guard
Honey, just about the time you're thinkin' it's alright
The lyrics of Bob Seger's song "Shakedown" describe the ruthless competition and cut-throat nature of the entertainment industry, particularly in Los Angeles. The song is written from the perspective of someone who is determined to succeed and is willing to do whatever it takes to make it to the top, even if it means stepping on others in the process. The lyrics suggest that no matter how hard someone tries, they will never be able to outrun or outsmart the person who is truly driven to succeed.
The line "No matter what you think you pull you'll find it's not enough" reflects the idea that no matter how much someone accomplishes in the industry or how many connections they have, there will always be someone else who is more driven and determined to succeed. The chorus ("Shakedown, breakdown, takedown") emphasizes the cut-throat nature of the industry, with everyone vying for their shot at fame and fortune.
The line "This is a town where everyone is reaching for the top" reinforces the idea that competition is fierce in Los Angeles, and that everyone is looking for their big break. The theme of constantly striving for success at all costs is reflected throughout the song.
Line by Line Meaning
No matter what you think you pull you'll find it's not enough
You may think you have it all under control, but it won't be enough in the end.
No matter who you think you know you won't get through
Your connections won't help you against me.
It's a given L.A. law
The fast and cunning always win in this city.
Someone's faster on the draw
I'm faster and smarter than you are.
No matter where you hide I'm comin' after you yeah
You can't escape me, I'll find you no matter where you go.
No matter how the race is run it always ends the same
Regardless of your strategy, I will always come out on top.
Another room without a view awaits downtown
Your future is bleak, you will be locked up in a dark cell in downtown L.A.
You can shake me for a while
You may be able to avoid me for a short time.
Live it up in style
Enjoy your freedom while you still can.
No matter what you do I'm gonna take you down
In the end, you will be brought to justice by me.
Shakedown
I will expose your criminal activity.
Breakdown
You will break under the pressure of being caught.
Takedown
I will apprehend and arrest you.
Everybody wants into the crowded line
Many people try to join in on illegal activities in L.A.
You're busted
You've been caught red-handed.
Let down
Your guard
Don't think that you can relax and let your guard down.
Honey, just about the time you're thinkin' it's alright
You may think you've gotten away with it, but you haven't.
Ah, busted
Aw aw
You've been caught, and it's not a good feeling.
This is a town where everyone is reachin' for the top
In L.A., everyone is trying to be the best and achieve success.
This is a place where second best will never do
There is no room for mediocrity in L.A.
It's okay to want to shine
It's natural to want to be successful and stand out.
But once you step across that line
But once you break the law, there are consequences.
Shakedown
I will make sure you are held accountable for your actions.
Breakdown
You will break under the pressure of being caught.
Ah, busted
You've been caught and exposed.
Let down
Your guard
Don't think that you can relax and let your guard down.
Lyrics © OBO APRA/AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Steven Harbers
on No Man's Land
I always liked 'No Man's Land' and equated it to all the times I'd get underway (ships at sea) especially when I was a younger Sailor. I always felt safer away from shore riding a wave that never crested.