That's Rock 'N' Roll
Shakin' Stevens and the Sunsets Lyrics


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The moon comes up in West L.A
Check your look and you're on your way
Hit the strip and find a show to play
Everyone is waiting

You always said you could ""take this town""
""Spit it out turn it upside down""
No more talkin the time is now
Everyone's been sayin

One on every corner and every block
They've all seen it
The time has come show them what you've got
Make 'em believe it

Let's go let's go (let go let go)
To another rock n' roll show
Let go let go (let go let go)
At another rock n' roll show tonight

9 o'clock to a half filled room
Now's your shot there's a lot to lose
Just hit town there's a lot to prove
Everyone's been talkin

Word back home it's all the same
Been listening ain't heard your name
So much for fortune and fame
Everyone's been whisperin'

But they don't know what they're talking about
They cant see it
The rooms are filling and selling out
Soon they'll believe it

Let's go let's go (let go let go)
To another rock n' roll show
Let go let go (let go let go)
At another rock n' roll show tonight

Too many pills and too much smoke
Too much dust and too much coke
You gotta move you cant go slow
Is it everything you wanted

Let's go let's go (let go let go)
To another rock n' roll show
Let go let go (let go let go)
To another rock n' roll show

Let's go let's go (let go let go)
To another rock n' roll show




Let go let go (let go let go)
There's another rock n' roll show tonight

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "That's Rock 'N' Roll" by Shakin' Stevens and the Sunsets reflect the excitement and determination of a band ready to make their mark in the music industry. The song starts by setting the scene in West L.A., where the singer prepares for a show, knowing that everyone is eagerly waiting for their performance. The line "Hit the strip and find a show to play" implies that the band is actively seeking opportunities to showcase their talent.


The lyrics portray the singer as someone who has always believed in their ability to succeed. The line "You always said you could 'take this town'" shows their confidence in their skills, with the intention of turning L.A. upside down. It signifies their determination to prove themselves. The time for talking is over, and they want to demonstrate what they are capable of achieving, as others have been talking about their potential.


The lyrics emphasize the band's desire to impress and win over the audience. The lines "One on every corner and every block, they've all seen it" indicates that they are aware of the competition but are ready to show their unique talents. The band wants to make the audience believe in their music and create an unforgettable experience at the rock 'n' roll show. They aim to captivate and leave a lasting impression.


The last stanza of the song introduces a slightly darker tone. The reference to "too many pills, too much smoke, too much dust, and too much coke" portrays the excesses and temptations that can come with the rock 'n' roll lifestyle. Despite these challenges, the band is urged to keep pushing forward, to always be on the move and not slow down. The lyrics ask whether this is everything they wanted, perhaps reflecting on the potential sacrifices and consequences that come with their pursuit of fame.


In conclusion, "That's Rock 'N' Roll" explores themes of ambition, confidence, and the desire to make a mark in the music industry. The lyrics convey a strong determination to prove themselves, overcome obstacles, and create an unforgettable experience for their audience. At the same time, the song hints at the potential pitfalls and challenges that can accompany the rock 'n' roll lifestyle.


Line by Line Meaning

The moon comes up in West L.A
The night begins in West Los Angeles


Check your look and you're on your way
Make sure you look good before heading out


Hit the strip and find a show to play
Go to the main entertainment area and search for a performance opportunity


Everyone is waiting
The audience eagerly anticipates the show


You always said you could "take this town"
You have always believed you can conquer this city


"Spit it out turn it upside down"
Speak confidently and revolutionize the music scene


No more talkin the time is now
Stop talking and seize the moment


Everyone's been sayin
Everyone has been spreading rumors about you


One on every corner and every block
There is competition all around you


They've all seen it
They have witnessed your talent


The time has come show them what you've got
Now is the moment to display your abilities


Make 'em believe it
Convince them of your talent


9 o'clock to a half filled room
Performing at 9 pm to a partially occupied venue


Now's your shot there's a lot to lose
This is your opportunity, and there are significant risks involved


Just hit town there's a lot to prove
You have just arrived in town, and there is much to demonstrate


Everyone's been talkin
Everyone has been gossiping


Word back home it's all the same
The news from your hometown is unchanged


Been listening ain't heard your name
Despite paying attention, your name has not been mentioned


So much for fortune and fame
The prospects of success and recognition seem diminished


Everyone's been whisperin'
Everyone has been whispering behind your back


But they don't know what they're talking about
Their opinions and rumors are baseless


They cant see it
They are unable to perceive your true potential


The rooms are filling and selling out
The venues are becoming packed and tickets are selling rapidly


Soon they'll believe it
In time, they will come to acknowledge your talent


Too many pills and too much smoke
Excessive drug usage is prevalent


Too much dust and too much coke
There is an abundance of cocaine and other substances


You gotta move you cant go slow
You must act swiftly and avoid being sluggish


Is it everything you wanted
Is the current situation fulfilling your desires?


There's another rock n' roll show tonight
Another rock 'n' roll performance is scheduled for this evening




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: John Patrick Merchant, Todd Michael Long, John Merchant, Todd Long

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Bloke

Laid up in the hospital for weeks back in 1992, 7 years old. Had a Walkman, and this on cassette! Got me through some rough times.

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