“Get It On (Bang a Gong)” by T. Rex is a classic rock anthem that’s more than just a catchy tune. It’s about attraction and raw energy. Marc Bolan draws a wild, irresistible character through vivid imagery and metaphors. This song is about an idealized, almost mythical figure who embodies freedom, sensuality, and the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. Bolan’s lyrics celebrate unbridled passion and the magnetic allure of a person who’s both “dirty and sweet.” This song taps into the excitement of youth, freedom, and the electric buzz of attraction. It’s a tribute to the intoxicating power of rock music itself.
Ever wondered what makes a classic rock song truly iconic? “Get It On (Bang a Gong)” is a perfect case study. Beyond the addictive guitar riffs and Bolan’s unique voice, there’s a whole world inside those lyrics.
“Get It On (Bang a Gong)” Lyrics Meaning
The opening lines, “Well, you’re dirty and sweet, clad in black, don’t look back, and I love you,” immediately introduce us to this captivating character. This person is a blend of rawness and sweetness, an incredibly appealing duality. Bolan’s use of “dirty” isn’t negative; it’s about being real, unpolished, and authentic.
As we move further, “You’re slim and you’re weak, you’ve got the teeth of the hydra upon you,” is a metaphor that adds a mythical dimension. This character, while appearing delicate, possesses inner strength and ferocity. The hydra, a multi-headed serpent from Greek mythology, symbolizes something powerful and almost untamable.
Then comes the chorus, “Get it on, bang a gong, get it on.” This line is a call to action, a rallying cry to embrace life’s rhythms and pleasures. The “bang a gong” part is particularly intriguing. A gong, with its loud, resonating sound, symbolizes awakening or an announcement. Bolan is inviting us to wake up, to feel alive, to ‘get it on’ in every sense.
The song continues with, “Well, you’re built like a car, you’ve got a hubcap diamond star halo.” Here, the imagery shifts to something more mechanical, yet still glamorous. This line could be interpreted as seeing someone as both a work of art and a powerhouse – sleek, strong, and shining. The mix of the mechanical and the celestial suggests a perfect blend of earthly and ethereal qualities.
Bolan also touches upon youth and its untamed nature, likening it to being “windy and wild.” It’s about the spirit of youth, uncontrolled and free, full of energy and potential. The mention of “blues in your shoes and your stockings” points to an underlying depth and soulfulness, adding layers to this character.
Finally, “You dance when you walk, so let’s dance, take a chance, understand me,” encapsulates the essence of the song – an invitation to join in this dance of life, to embrace the moment with all its intensity and passion.
The Story Behind “Get It On”
When Marc Bolan penned “Get It On,” he was riding the crest of the glam rock wave. Bolan, known for his poetic flair and imaginative lyricism, was at a point in his career where he was experimenting with blending rock with theatrical elements. This song reflects his state of mind – playful, confident, and a bit mystical.
Bolan’s life at this time was characterized by a fascination with blending the mundane with the magical, the earthly with the celestial. He often drew on mythological and fantastical elements, as seen in the hydra reference. This approach gave his music a timeless, universal appeal.
Additionally, Bolan’s intention with “Get It On” was to create something that encapsulated the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. He wanted to convey the essence of what it felt like to be young, wild, and free, and he achieved this by crafting a character that listeners could both idolize and relate to. The song wasn’t just a hit; it was an anthem that captured the mood of an entire generation.
“Get It On (Bang a Gong)” is a rich tapestry of imagery, metaphors, and themes that encapsulate the spirit of an era. It’s about the freedom and excitement of youth, the power of attraction, and the magic of rock music. Bolan’s genius lay in his ability to take these universal themes and weave them into a song that’s both timeless and deeply personal.