Take It On the Run

About this song

Originally titled "Don't Let Me Down", the song was the second single from the band's breakthrough album Hi Infidelity. It peaked at #5 in May 1981, becoming the band's second of five career top 10 hits. It was also the ninth music video ever aired on MTV, shown on the channel's first day of broadcasting.

What it's about

The song was one of several on the album inspired by infidelity and relationship problems the band members were dealing with at the time. Guitarist Gary Richrath said he sang about the effects of gossip and relationships breaking up.

Fun facts

• Sampled in 1 other song, like “Messin' Around by Pitbull (Ft. Enrique Iglesias)”.
• Covered once, including “Take It On The Run by Me First and the Gimme Gimmes”.
• Written by Gary Richrath.
• Produced by Kevin Cronin, Gary Richrath, Kevin Beamish and Alan Gratzer.