Jumpin' Jack Flash
The Rolling Stones Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

I was born in a cross-fire hurricane
And I howled at the morning driving rain
But it's all right now, in fact, it's a gas
But it's all right, I'm Jumpin' Jack Flash
It's a gas, gas, gas

I was raised by a toothless, bearded hag
I was schooled with a strap right across my back
But it's all right now, in fact, it's a gas
But it's all right, I'm Jumpin' Jack Flash
It's a gas, gas, gas (ooh)

I was drowned, I was washed up and left for dead
I fell down to my feet and I saw they bled, yeah, yeah
I frowned at the crumbs of a crust of bread
Yeah, yeah, yeah

I was crowned with a spike right through my head, my, my, yeah
But it's all right now, in fact, it's a gas
But it's all right, I'm Jumpin' Jack Flash
It's a gas, gas, gas

Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas




Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas

Overall Meaning

"Jumpin' Jack Flash" was released by The Rolling Stones in 1968 and has since become one of their most popular and iconic songs. Its lyrics are a testament to the rebelliousness and struggle of youth and the need for self-expression.


The opening verse, "I was born in a cross-fire hurricane / And I howled at the morning driving rain," suggests that the singer has experienced intense and chaotic events in their life, perhaps indicating their passion and strong emotions. The following verses describe the difficult upbringing and hardships they faced, including being schooled with a strap across their back and being left for dead. Despite these struggles, the chorus emphasizes that the singer is still alive and thriving, declaring "it's all right now, in fact it's a gas."


This song's appeal lies in its energy, with the chorus repeating the phrase "it's a gas" several times. The repetition gives the song a sense of urgency and excitement, emphasizing the idea that life is worth living despite its hardships. The character of Jumpin' Jack Flash himself is often interpreted as a symbol of this youthful rebellion and resilience.


Overall, "Jumpin' Jack Flash" is a declaration of the power of youth to overcome adversity and embrace life's challenges. Its energy, catchy chorus, and iconic riffs continue to make it a beloved classic rock song today.


Line by Line Meaning

I was born in a cross-fire hurricane
I came into this world amidst chaos and violence


And I howled at the morning driving rain
As a helpless newborn, I cried out at the harshness of the world around me


But it's all right now, in fact, it's a gas
Despite my difficult start in life, things have turned out well for me and I'm enjoying myself


But it's all right, I'm Jumpin' Jack Flash
I have a resilient, carefree spirit that allows me to rise above any challenges that come my way


It's a gas, gas, gas
Life is exciting and enjoyable, and I'm making the most of every moment


I was raised by a toothless, bearded hag
I grew up in difficult circumstances, with little guidance or support


I was schooled with a strap right across my back
My education was harsh and punishing, with physical discipline for any mistakes


I was drowned, I was washed up and left for dead
I experienced a traumatic event where I nearly lost my life


I fell down to my feet and I saw they bled, yeah, yeah
I suffered physical injuries as a result of the traumatic event


I frowned at the crumbs of a crust of bread
I've experienced extreme poverty and hunger


I was crowned with a spike right through my head, my, my, yeah
I've faced intense pain and suffering, both physical and emotional


Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
My carefree spirit and positive attitude make life exciting and enjoyable


Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
I'm always on the move, seeking out new experiences and challenges


Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
I'm a force to be reckoned with, unstoppable and always moving forward


Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
My energy and enthusiasm are contagious, inspiring others to join in on the fun


Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
Life is an adventure, and I'm fully embracing every moment of it


Jumping Jack Flash, it's a gas
I'm unstoppable, a force of nature that can't be tamed or slowed down




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Abkco Music Inc.
Written by: Michael Philip Jagger, Keith Richards

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@framebyframe7473

You know it’s a good song when it doesn’t age after 53 years, and never will.

@generaltov.6911

Time really flies huh? This sounds from the 2000s which is still 20 years ago

@mahrizhossain4308

@General Tov. It sounds from the 60s, but it is definitely infinitely better than today's songs.

@SunnyIlha

2:46

@robinholbrook6576

Taught it to my granddaughter!

@davebrokenshire1086

@Robin Holbrook Me too!

28 More Replies...

@zippoboy00

My dad's favorite Rolling Stones tune. Lost him 2-23-22. This one's for you Dad. I'll sing it until my voice gives out!

@Mattimaginex1

Condolences for your family.

@franciscogarcia7588

I feel ur pain.. 😔

@Cissy2cute

Lost someone dear to me last month. Sorry about your loss.

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