About the Song
"Shake It Up" is a song by American rock band the Cars from their fourth studio album of the same name (1981). It was released on November 9, 1981, as the album's lead single. Although appearing for the first time in 1981, it was actually written years earlier by the band's songwriter and lead singer Ric Ocasek. The song became one of the Cars' most popular songs, peaking at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the Billboard Top Tracks chart in early 1982. With the track "Cruiser" as its B-side, it reached number 14 on the Billboard Disco Top 80 chart.
Meaning Behind the Lyrics
"Shake It Up" can be interpreted as an energetic celebration of freedom and spontaneity, inviting listeners to embrace life’s vibrancy. Many listeners find that the upbeat tempo and lively rhythm reflect themes of moving beyond routine and breaking free from constraints. The song captures a sense of youthful exuberance and the thrill of new experiences, resonating with those who yearn for excitement and adventure. This celebratory tone, coupled with the catchy melodies, makes it a timeless anthem for those looking to shake things up in their own lives.
Did You Know?
- The Cars were an American rock band formed in Boston in 1976.
- Emerging from the new wave scene in the late 1970s, they consisted of Ric Ocasek, Benjamin Orr, Elliot Easton, Greg Hawkes (keyboards) and David Robinson (drums).
Music Details
These details come from the iTunes song listing used for the artwork and metadata match.
- Album/collection: Shake It Up
- Genre: Rock
- iTunes release date: November 6, 1981
- Track runtime: 3:32
Video Snapshot
- Video title: The Cars – Shake It Up (Official Music Video)
- YouTube channel: RHINO
Quick Facts
- Artist: The Cars
- Song: Shake It Up
- Album/collection: Shake It Up
- Genre: Rock
- Reference page: Shake It Up (The Cars song)
