About the song
“Take It on the Run” is a standout track by the American rock band REO Speedwagon, featured on their acclaimed 1980 album *Hi Infidelity*. Written by lead guitarist Gary Richrath, this song served as a high-profile follow-up to the band’s chart-topping hit “Keep On Loving You.” Released in 1981, “Take It on the Run” quickly cemented its place in rock history, achieving gold certification on April 17, 1989, and solidifying its status as one of the band’s signature songs.
The song’s compelling narrative revolves around themes of suspicion and betrayal. It tells the story of a narrator who confronts rumors of infidelity from his partner. While he initially denies believing the accusations, his resolve to distance himself if the rumors are true reflects a potent mix of emotional intensity and rock vigor. This narrative is accentuated by the memorable and energetic chorus, which captures the listener’s attention with its dynamic rhythm and powerful delivery.
Kevin Cronin, REO Speedwagon’s lead singer, played a significant role in shaping the final version of the song. Originally titled “Don’t Let Me Down,” the song underwent a transformation when Cronin and Richrath collaborated to refine it. Cronin was particularly enthusiastic about the new title, “Take It on the Run,” believing it better conveyed the song’s essence and featured a captivating opening line: “Heard it from a friend, who heard it from a friend…” This line, along with the memorable refrain, added a layer of intrigue and resonance to the song.
Despite initial reluctance from Epic Records, who preferred “In Your Letter” as the follow-up single, REO Speedwagon’s insistence on “Take It on the Run” proved to be a wise decision. The song climbed to number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached number 19 on the UK Singles Chart, demonstrating its widespread appeal and success. The song’s influence extends beyond its initial release; it has been featured on numerous “various artists” compilation albums and greatest-hits collections. Notably, the 2017 song “Messin’ Around” by Pitbull featuring Enrique Iglesias interpolates “Take It on the Run,” showcasing its lasting impact on popular music.
The song’s music video, which premiered on MTV’s launch day on August 1, 1981, faced technical difficulties that prevented it from being shown in its entirety. Despite this hiccup, “Take It on the Run” remains a beloved classic, frequently cited as one of REO Speedwagon’s greatest achievements. Ultimate Classic Rock critic Matt Wardlaw even ranked it as the band’s second greatest song, further affirming its enduring popularity and significance in the rock genre.
Overall, “Take It on the Run” exemplifies REO Speedwagon’s ability to blend compelling storytelling with powerful rock instrumentation, securing its place as a timeless anthem in the band’s impressive catalog.
Video
Lyrics
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from another you been messin’ around
They say you got a boyfriend
You’re out late every weekend
They’re talkin’ about you and it’s bringin’ me down
But I know the neighborhood
And talk is cheaper when the story is good
And the tales grow taller on down the line
But I’m telling you, babe
That I don’t think it’s true, babe
And even if it is, keep this in mind
You take it on the run, baby
If that’s the way you want it, baby
Then I don’t want you around
I don’t believe it
Not for a minute
You’re under the gun
So you take it on the run
You’re thinking up your white lies
You’re putting on your bedroom eyes
You say you’re coming home, but you won’t say when
But I can feel it coming
If you leave tonight, keep running
And you need never look back again
You take it on the run, baby
If that’s the way you want it, baby
Then I don’t want you around
I don’t believe it
Not for a minute
You’re under the gun
So you take it on the run
Take it on the run, baby
If that’s the way you want it, baby
Then I don’t want you around
I don’t believe it
Not for a minute
You’re under the gun
So you take it on the run
Take it on the run, baby
If that’s the way you want it, baby
Then I don’t want you around
I don’t believe it
Not for a minute
You’re under the gun
So you take it on the run
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from another you been messin’ around