The Song
“Hit Me With Your Best Shot” is a song by American rock singer Pat Benatar. It was released in September 1980 as the lead single from her second studio album, “Crimes of Passion”. The song was written by Eddie Schwartz and produced by Keith Olsen.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” are simple and catchy. The song is an anthem of empowerment, urging the listener to take on any challenge that comes their way. Here are the complete lyrics:
Well, you’re the real tough cookie with the long history
Of breaking little hearts like the one in me
That’s okay, let’s see how you do it
Put up your dukes, let’s get down to it!Hit me with your best shot
Why don’t you hit me with your best shot?
Hit me with your best shot
Fire away!You come on with a “come on”
You don’t fight fair
That’s okay, see if I care
Knock me down, it’s all in vain
I’ll get right back on my feet againHit me with your best shot
Why don’t you hit me with your best shot?
Hit me with your best shot
Fire away!Well, you’re a real tough cookie with a long history
Of breaking little hearts like the one in me
Before I put another notch in my lipstick case
You better make sure you put me in my placeHit me with your best shot
Come on, hit me with your best shot
Hit me with your best shot
Fire away!Hit me with your best shot
Why don’t you hit me with your best shot?
Hit me with your best shot
Fire away!
The Meaning
The lyrics of “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” can be interpreted in different ways. On the surface, the song seems to be about a tough woman challenging a man to a fight. However, some critics have suggested that the song is actually about Benatar’s struggles in the music industry, where she had to fight against sexism and discrimination.
The Legacy
“Hit Me With Your Best Shot” has become one of Pat Benatar’s signature songs and a classic of 1980s rock. The song reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been covered by many artists, including Mary J. Blige, Joan Jett, and the cast of Glee.
The Album
“Crimes of Passion” was released in August 1980 and became Pat Benatar’s breakthrough album. The album reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and has been certified 4x Platinum by the RIAA. It also features other hits like “Treat Me Right” and “You Better Run”.
The Artist
Pat Benatar was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1953. She began singing in the 1970s and became one of the most successful female rock singers of the 1980s. Her other hits include “Love Is a Battlefield”, “We Belong”, and “Invincible”. She has won four Grammy Awards and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The Impact
“Hit Me With Your Best Shot” is a timeless anthem of empowerment and resilience that continues to inspire generations of fans. The song has been used in movies, TV shows, and commercials, and it remains a staple of classic rock radio.
The Conclusion
“Hit Me With Your Best Shot” is a classic rock song that captures the spirit of the 1980s and the enduring appeal of Pat Benatar’s music. With its catchy lyrics, driving guitars, and powerful vocals, the song is a testament to Benatar’s talent and influence as a rock icon.
