About the song
Background
- Written By: Brian May, Queen’s legendary guitarist.
- Album: A Day at the Races (1976)
- Released as a Single: 1977
- Genre: Hard rock
Musical Style
- Driving Guitar Riff: The song’s backbone is a powerful, blues-inspired guitar riff that instantly grabs your attention.
- Anthemic Vocals: Freddie Mercury’s vocals reach soaring heights, delivering the rebellious lyrics with characteristic power and charisma.
- Strong Rhythm Section: Roger Taylor’s aggressive drumming and John Deacon’s solid bassline provide a relentless rhythmic foundation.
Themes
- Rebellion and Desire: The lyrics speak of a young individual who feels restless and frustrated, eager to break free from constraints (hence, “tie your mother down”).
- Hormonal Energy: While not explicitly stated, there’s a strong undercurrent of youthful energy and sexual tension throughout the song.
Live Performance Staple
- “Tie Your Mother Down” became a massive fan favorite and a frequent concert opener throughout Queen’s career. Its raw power and crowd-pleasing chorus made it the perfect way to kick off a show.
Legacy
- Beloved Rock Classic: The song remains one of Queen’s signature hard rock anthems, enjoyed by generations of fans.
- Cover Versions: Numerous artists have covered “Tie Your Mother Down,” including bands like Warrant and Motley Crue.
- Appearance in Pop Culture: The song has been featured in movies and video games.
Video
Lyrics
Ooh, ooh yeah, ooooh yeahGet your party gownGet your pigtail downGet your heart beatin’ babyGot my timin’ rightGot my act all tightIt’s gotta be tonight my littleSchool babe
Your Mamma says you don’tYour Daddy says you won’tAnd I’m boilin’ up insideAin’t no way I’m gonna lose out this time, oh no
Tie your mother downTie your mother downLock your daddy out of doorsI don’t need him nosin’ aroundTie your mother downTie your mother downGive me all your love tonight
You’re such a dirty louseGo get outta my houseThat’s all I ever get from yourFamily ties, in fact I don’t think I ever heardA single little civil word from those guysBut you know I don’t give a lightI’m gonna make out all rightI’ve got a sweetheart handTo put a stop to all thatSnipin’ an’ grousin’ goin’ on all night
Tie your mother downTie your mother downTake your little brother swimmin’With a brick (that’s all right)Tie your mother down – yeah yeahTie your mother downOr you ain’t no friend of mine, ooh no friend of mineNo no, ow, yeah, bad guy
Ooh, your Mammy and your Daddy gonnaPlague me till I dieThey can’t understand it, I’m just aPeace lovin’ guy
Ooh, tie your mother downTie your mother downGet that big big big big big big daddy out of doorsTie your mother down – yeahTie your mother downGive me all your love tonightAll your love tonight
Give me every inch of your love – oohAll your love tonightYeah, gotta get my timin’ right heyOoh, all your loveTie your mother down