The Meaning Behind The Song: All Fired Up by Pat Benatar
Pat Benatar is one of the most iconic rock singers of all time, known for her powerful voice and fierce attitude. One of her most beloved songs is “All Fired Up,” which was released in 1988. The energetic track became an instant hit, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s lyrics are empowering and motivational, inspiring listeners to feel unstoppable and confident in their abilities.
The Lyrics of “All Fired Up”
The opening lines of “All Fired Up” set the tone for the entire song:
“Who’s the hunter, who’s the game?
I feel the beat, call your name
Hold my hand, in the dark
And I’ll show you love”
These words suggest a thrilling chase, with the singer feeling confident and in control. As the song continues, Benatar sings about feeling “the need for speed” and “hunger that’s the fire,” indicating a desire to push boundaries and take risks. The chorus declares:
“I’m all fired up
Don’t believe in nothin’
Gonna leave this world behind
Nothin’s gonna stop me now”
These lines are powerful and assertive, signaling a sense of determination to succeed no matter what obstacles lie ahead.
The bridge of the song slows down the tempo, with Benatar crooning:
“Sometimes it’s tough
To be a woman
Giving all you got, oh, no
It’s never enough”
This verse acknowledges the challenges that women face in achieving their goals, but Benatar immediately follows it up with a reaffirming chorus to remind listeners that they are capable of anything.
The Inspiration Behind the Song
In interviews, Benatar has spoken about the inspiration behind “All Fired Up.” She has stated that the song was written by the songwriting duo Tom Kelly and Billy Steinberg, who also penned some of her other hits like “We Belong” and “Invincible.” Benatar was immediately drawn to the song’s message of empowerment and felt that it was a perfect fit for her voice and style.
Benatar has also talked about the personal meaning that the song holds for her. In an interview with Rolling Stone, she explained that “All Fired Up” was a tribute to her husband and longtime collaborator, Neil Giraldo. The two of them have worked together for decades, and Benatar credits Giraldo with helping her to find her voice as an artist. She has described him as her muse and her rock, and the lyrics of “All Fired Up” reflect this sense of shared passion and commitment.
The Legacy of “All Fired Up”
“All Fired Up” has become one of Pat Benatar’s most iconic and enduring songs, resonating with audiences around the world for over three decades. Its message of empowerment has inspired countless people to follow their dreams and pursue their passions, and the song has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials over the years.
In 2019, “All Fired Up” was included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of “Women Who Rock: The Essential 2000s.” The song was praised for its electrifying energy and timeless message of female empowerment, cementing its reputation as one of the greatest rock anthems of all time.
FAQs About “All Fired Up.”
1. What inspired Pat Benatar to record “All Fired Up?”
In interviews, Pat Benatar has stated that “All Fired Up” was written by Tom Kelly and Billy Steinberg, who also penned some of her other hits like “We Belong” and “Invincible.” Benatar was drawn to the song’s message of empowerment and felt that it was a perfect fit for her voice and style.
2. What is the message behind “All Fired Up?”
The message of “All Fired Up” is one of empowerment and determination. The song encourages listeners to feel confident and unstoppable, to pursue their passions and take risks, and to refuse to let anything stand in their way.
3. What is the significance of the song title?
The title “All Fired Up” suggests a sense of energy and passion, indicating that the singer is ready to take on the world and achieve her goals. The phrase also implies that the singer is empowered and in control, not afraid to take risks or face challenges.
4. Who played guitar on “All Fired Up”?
The guitar on “All Fired Up” was played by Pat Benatar’s husband and longtime collaborator, Neil Giraldo. Known for his innovative guitar solos, Giraldo has been a key part of Benatar’s sound since the beginning of her career.
5. What other songs did Tom Kelly and Billy Steinberg write for Pat Benatar?
Tom Kelly and Billy Steinberg wrote several other hit songs for Pat Benatar, including “We Belong,” “Invincible,” and “Painted Desert.” They have also written for other iconic artists like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and The Bangles.
6. What awards has “All Fired Up” won?
While “All Fired Up” was not nominated for any major music awards, it has earned widespread critical acclaim and has become one of Pat Benatar’s most beloved songs. In 2019, it was included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of “Women Who Rock: The Essential 2000s.”
7. Has “All Fired Up” been used in any movies or TV shows?
Yes, “All Fired Up” has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials over the years. Some notable examples include the 1991 movie “The Taking of Beverly Hills” and the TV shows “Miami Vice,” “The Simpsons,” and “Glee.”
8. What is the meaning behind the lyrics “Sometimes it’s tough to be a woman?”
The lyrics “Sometimes it’s tough to be a woman” acknowledge the challenges that women face in pursuing their dreams and achieving their goals. The verse is a reminder that despite these obstacles, women are capable of achieving greatness and should never give up.
9. What impact has “All Fired Up” had on Pat Benatar’s career?
“All Fired Up” has become one of Pat Benatar’s most iconic and enduring songs, serving as a testament to her powerful voice and fierce attitude. The song has helped to cement Benatar’s legacy as one of the greatest female rock singers of all time, inspiring countless people around the world to pursue their dreams and believe in themselves.
10. What other songs are considered Pat Benatar classics?
Along with “All Fired Up,” some of Pat Benatar’s other classic songs include “Heartbreaker,” “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” “Love Is a Battlefield,” and “We Belong.” These songs are widely considered to be some of the greatest rock anthems of all time, cementing Benatar’s reputation as a true icon of the genre.
11. How has Pat Benatar influenced the music industry?
Pat Benatar’s bold and uncompromising approach to rock music has inspired countless artists over the years and helped to pave the way for female musicians in a male-dominated industry. Her powerful voice and fierce attitude have made her a role model for women around the world, and her music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
12. What is Pat Benatar doing now?
While Pat Benatar has not released new music in recent years, she remains an active performer and has continued to tour and play concerts around the world. In interviews, she has spoken about the importance of staying true to oneself and following one’s passions, inspiring fans to do the same.
