Shooting Shark

Blue Öyster Cult

About Shooting Shark

"Shooting Shark" is a song by American hard rock band Blue Öyster Cult, appearing on the band's ninth album The Revölution by Night. Written by guitarist/vocalist Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser with lyrics inspired by a Patti Smith poem, the song features a synthesizer-heavy pop sound mixed with rock elements. The song features Randy Jackson on bass, who would later go on to become a judge on American Idol from 2002–2013."Shooting Shark" was a modest success, peaking at #83 on the Billboard Hot 100, as well as #16 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart.  


Year:
1983
7:09
297 
#1

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Well I'm up there beside the magic man
And he laid some tricks for me
He said you do need help my friend
I whispered, obviously

He laid a spread of Jacks and Queens
And he begged me take my pick
But every face that had your face
I cried out, I am sick

[Chorus]
Sick of hauling your love around
Want to run my train alone
But the engine tracks straight through your heart
And weighs me like a stone
Oh it's a hard love to love you it takes up all my time
Having you so familiar like past lives and nursery rhymes

So I gave away the pictures and your golden ring
And the phone calls you sent me and the silver birds that sing
Then the man he told me something that really brought me down
Your things were blown away it's true but you were still in town

[Chorus]

The magician left a message, it flashes when I hide
Accept the chains of loving,
Accept the rails remove yourself from her side
Do without her love

As I lay back in the speeding train, I keep it by my side
I could mail a letter to you but I still have my pride

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Blue Öyster Cult

Blue Öyster Cult (often abbreviated BÖC) are an American rock band from Long Island, New York, United States, best known for such hard rock songs as "(Don't Fear) The Reaper", "Burnin' for You", and "Godzilla". Since the release of their self-titled debut album in 1972, the band has sold over 24 million albums worldwide, including 7 million in the United States alone.[citation needed] The band's music videos, especially "Burnin' for You", received heavy rotation on MTV when the music television network premiered in 1981, cementing the band's contribution to the development and success of the music video in modern pop culture. Today, BÖC's music continues to be played on AOR-friendly radio stations as well as in movies, … more »

8 fans

Written by: DONALD ROESER, PATTI SMITH

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Song Creation
"Shooting Shark" was recorded and produced by rock band Blue Öyster Cult, a popular band from the United States.
Album Inclusion
The song is part of their album "The Revölution by Night" which is their ninth studio album released in 1983.
High Ranking
"Shooting Shark" was one of the most popular songs from Blue Öyster Cult, peaking at number 16 spot on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
Writer's Contribution
The song was co-written by musician and producer Patti Smith, in addition to band member Eric Bloom.
Song's Meaning
The lyrics revolve around the theme of psychedelic experiences which is a common theme among the works of Blue Öyster Cult.
Patti Smith Collaboration
Patti Smith’s contributions to "Shooting Shark" marked the fourth and last time she collaborated with the band. They also worked together on hits like "Career of Evil" and "Fire of Unknown Origin."
Musical Composition
"Shooting Shark" features a mid-tempo rhythm, notable synthesizer parts, and a saxophone solo by Randy Brecker, enhancing the unique Blue Öyster Cult sound.
Critical Reception
The song has been recognized by critics for its technical sophistication and lyric complexity, vital aspects of Blue Öyster Cult's appeal to fans.
Music Video
The music video for the song features a nightclub setting, dancers in skeleton costumes, and a cameo appearance by co-writer Patti Smith.
Live Performances
Despite not being a major commercial success, "Shooting Shark" remains a favorite among the band’s fan base and is still a staple in their live performances.
Prevailing Influence
After nearly 40 years, "Shooting Shark" continues to sustain the interest of rock enthusiasts, appearing on compilation albums and maintaining regular roles in the band's live sets.

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