Aerosmith's What It Takes: Meaning & Lyrics

Hey everyone! Ever found yourself completely captivated by a song? That's definitely how I feel about Aerosmith's "What It Takes." This song, released in 1989 on their Pump album, is more than just a catchy tune; it's a deep dive into relationships, sacrifice, and the raw emotions that come with love. Today, we're going to break down the lyrics, the meaning, and why this power ballad continues to resonate with so many of us, even decades later. Get ready to go on a musical journey, because this one's a classic!

The Genesis of a Classic: Behind the Song

So, before we dive deep into the meaning of the song, let's talk about its origins. "What It Takes" wasn't just slapped together; it was crafted with precision and heart. The song was primarily written by Steven Tyler, along with Joe Perry and Desmond Child, who helped co-write several tracks on the Pump album. This album marked a major comeback for Aerosmith, and "What It Takes" played a huge role in that success. The song's emotional intensity, combined with its killer melody, made it an instant hit. The song reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying its place in rock history. The power ballad structure, featuring Tyler's signature soaring vocals and the band's tight instrumentation, set the stage for its widespread appeal. The song structure is pretty typical of a power ballad, starting slow and building up to an emotional crescendo. From the tender piano intro to the full-blown rock chorus, the song takes you on an emotional roller coaster. Seriously, this song is the kind of track that can give you goosebumps.

The lyrics themselves are a masterclass in storytelling. They delve into the complex dynamics of a relationship, highlighting the sacrifices, compromises, and emotional labor involved in maintaining love. Aerosmith, known for their hard-rocking anthems, showcased their versatility and songwriting prowess with this heartfelt ballad. The lyrics don't shy away from vulnerability, which is what I think makes them so relatable. It's a song about the gritty reality of relationships, not just the fairy tale. The Pump album as a whole really showed a new side of Aerosmith, and "What It Takes" was the centerpiece. This is the kind of song that makes you want to grab someone you love, look them in the eyes, and have a heart-to-heart. The success of the song helped revitalize their career, cementing them as one of the biggest rock bands in the world.

The Musical Arrangement: A Symphony of Emotions

The musical arrangement is just as important as the lyrics. The song begins with a soft, piano-driven intro, which instantly sets a vulnerable mood. This gentle opening provides the perfect contrast to the heavier rock elements that build as the song progresses. The use of strings adds a layer of depth and grandeur, enhancing the song's emotional impact. This is where the magic of the song truly starts. As the song progresses, the guitars, drums, and bass kick in, creating a powerful, driving force. The production is top-notch, with each instrument given space to shine without overwhelming the others. It's perfectly balanced. The instrumental bridge features a guitar solo that's both technically impressive and emotionally charged. Joe Perry's guitar work, combined with Tyler's vocals, creates a perfect blend of power and emotion. The arrangement builds gradually, adding layers of instrumentation to heighten the emotional intensity. The song's crescendo is truly epic, leaving the listener feeling moved and exhilarated. The music swells, mimicking the emotional journey of the lyrics. It's a perfect blend of hard rock and heartfelt balladry, appealing to a wide audience.

Diving into the Lyrics: Line by Line

Alright, let's get into the heart of the matter – the lyrics! The song opens with a raw, introspective tone. The opening lines immediately set the stage for the emotional journey to come. These first few lines are so simple yet incredibly powerful. The lyrics explore themes of sacrifice, emotional labor, and the unspoken things that often define relationships. The song delves into the idea that love requires effort, commitment, and a willingness to overcome challenges together. Let's dig deeper, line by line, to fully grasp its meaning.

Verse 1: The Foundation of Struggle

The first verse sets the tone, laying the groundwork for the emotional journey. It starts with an acknowledgement of the sacrifices and effort needed to maintain a loving relationship. The lyrics immediately make you think about those moments of struggle that you probably know oh so well. The opening lyrics reveal the internal conflict and the cost of love.

What it takes to get by What it takes to realize What it takes to compromise To see the truth behind your eyes

These lines really set the scene. They highlight the idea that maintaining a relationship requires more than just feelings; it also requires conscious effort and compromise. They highlight the constant give-and-take that makes a relationship work.

Chorus: The Heart of the Matter

The chorus is where the emotional core of the song is revealed. It's where the themes of sacrifice and love come to a head. The soaring vocals and powerful instrumentation create an anthem that's both heart-wrenching and uplifting.

It ain't easy, no, it ain't easy What it takes to love you It ain't easy, no, it ain't easy What it takes to love you

The repeated lines hit you hard. The chorus emphasizes that love is not always easy; it takes work, understanding, and sacrifice. The repeated phrase underlines the effort and dedication required in a relationship.

Verse 2: The Battle Within

This verse continues to explore the internal struggle and the challenges of love, often questioning yourself. It’s here that the singer delves into the emotional turmoil and self-doubt that can arise in a relationship. This verse expands on the idea of vulnerability and the fear of inadequacy. It reveals the vulnerability and the deep emotional work involved.

Sometimes I wonder why Sometimes I wonder how Sometimes I wonder if it’s worth it now

These lines really capture the internal struggle that many experience in love. They are incredibly relatable. It's a raw and honest portrayal of the doubts that can creep in.

Bridge: Building to a Climax

The bridge is where the song builds to its emotional climax. The lyrics are delivered with raw emotion. It's often the part of the song that really grabs you, making the chorus hit even harder. The bridge builds the emotional intensity, preparing for the final chorus and the song's resolution. It often showcases a guitar solo or other instrumental elements, creating a powerful moment. This part is filled with pure emotion, preparing us for the climax.

Final Chorus and Outro: The Resolution

The final chorus is a powerful repetition of the theme, reinforced by the instrumental crescendo. This final chorus is all about acceptance and commitment. The song ends with a sense of resolution and acceptance.

The outro often includes repeated phrases or instrumental riffs that leave a lasting impact. The final repetition of the chorus solidifies the core message. It often includes a fade-out, leaving a lasting impact on the listener. The outro confirms that despite the difficulties, the singer is committed to loving and being there for the other person.

The Impact and Legacy of "What It Takes"

"What It Takes" made a big splash, and it's still loved by many. Its impact is undeniable. The song's ability to tap into the raw emotions of love and relationships is what makes it so special. It's a song that people connect with on a deeply personal level. It's a song that brings back memories for a lot of people. The song has been featured in movies, TV shows, and even video games, introducing it to new generations of listeners. This song is still listened to, showing its timeless appeal.

Cultural Influence and Recognition

The song was a major commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100. It earned the band widespread recognition. It received critical acclaim. Its music video received heavy rotation on MTV. The song has been covered by numerous artists. Its lyrics have been quoted and shared extensively. The song remains a staple in classic rock playlists. Aerosmith's ability to create a song with such emotional depth has cemented their legacy.

Why the Song Resonates Today

So, why does "What It Takes" still matter? It's simple, guys – it's because the themes are timeless. The song deals with universal experiences, such as the effort it takes to love, the sacrifices people make, and the emotions that come with relationships. These emotions still resonate with people today, which is why the song still hits hard. The song still provides comfort and validation to people going through the ups and downs of love. It offers a sense of connection and shared experience. It's a song that speaks to the heart, reminding us that love, while challenging, is worth the effort.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of "What It Takes"

So there you have it, folks! A deep dive into the meaning and magic of Aerosmith's "What It Takes." It's a testament to the band's songwriting and their ability to connect with us on an emotional level. The song reminds us that relationships are a journey filled with both challenges and rewards. It's a song that still speaks to the complexities of love. This song has a message that's stood the test of time, reminding us of the hard work and commitment that love requires. Whether you're a long-time Aerosmith fan or new to their music, this song is worth another listen. Thanks for joining me on this musical journey. Now, go put on the song and enjoy!