Got to get a grip
Skin and bones, it ain’t such a pity
If you think I’m vain, better shut your lips
I can’t explain how to be fat city
You got to live large, got to let it rip
Skin and bones, it ain’t such a pity
Don’t you give me no flack, honey shut your lip
You got to have stones if you’re living in the city
If you want to hang loose got to get a grip rip
Once upon a crime I thought I was cool but I don’t want to brag
Once I crossed the line I think I must have zigged when I should have zagged
Got to get a grip
Skin and bones, it ain’t such a pity
If you think I’m vain, better shut your lips
I can’t explain how to be fat city
You got to live large, got to let it rip
Same old same old every day
If things don’t change you’re just gonna rot
Because if you do what you’ve always done
You’ll always get what you always got
Uh, could that be nothing?
Got to get a grip
Skin and bones, it ain’t such a pity
If you think I’m vain, better shut your lips
I can’t explain how to be fat city
You got to live large, got to let it rip
Skin and bones, it ain’t such a pity
Don’t give me no flack, honey shut your lip
You got to have stones if you’re living in the city
If you want to hang loose got to get a grip rip
Who knows for sure yeah without a doubt
What goes on when the lights go out
Or who pulls in when I pull out
And what’s a one eyed trouser trout?
I was so short sighted
Now the wrong been righted
I feel so delighted
I get so excited
Skin and bones, it ain’t such a pity
If you think I’m vain, better shut you lip
I can’t explain how to be fat city
You got to live large, got to let it rip
Skin and bones, it ain’t such a pity
Don’t you give me no flack, honey shut your lip
You got to have stones if you’re living in the city
If you want to hang loose got to get a grip rip
You want to get high in a New York minute
Choke that smoke, honey crack the whip
Your head gets dead, yea as long as you’re in it
You want to hang loose, got to get a grip
Skin and bones, it ain’t such a pity
Don’t give me no flack, honey shut your lip
You got to have stones if you’re living in the city
If you want to hang loose got to get a grip rip
Finding Freedom in the Grit of the City
“Get A Grip” by Aerosmith is a high-octane anthem that captures the band’s signature blend of swagger and raw honesty. The lyrics are a rallying cry for authenticity and boldness, urging listeners to live large and face life’s challenges head-on. The recurring phrase “got to get a grip” isn’t just about self-control—it’s a call to embrace life with both hands, no matter how tough or unpredictable it gets.
Living Large and Letting Go
Throughout the song, Steven Tyler’s sharp wit shines through, especially in lines that poke fun at vanity and conformity. The references to city living, taking risks, and letting loose highlight the importance of courage and adaptability. The song warns against stagnation—”if you do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you always got”—and encourages a break from routine for genuine fulfillment.
Song Credits
Artist: Aerosmith
Songwriters: Steven Tyler, Joe Perry
Release Year: 1993
Label: Geffen Records