About the song
Released in 1975, “Take It to the Limit” is a song that has become an iconic part of the Eagles’ discography. Written by Randy Meisner, Don Henley, and Glenn Frey, this waltz-time ballad has captivated audiences with its soaring harmonies, poignant lyrics, and memorable melody. The song’s journey from its inception to its eventual departure from the band’s setlist is a fascinating tale of creative collaboration, personal struggles, and the evolution of a band’s sound.
The song began as a solo composition by Meisner, who sang lead vocals on the track. However, as the album’s recording deadline approached, Henley and Frey assisted Meisner in completing the song. Meisner’s performance of the song was a crowd-pleaser, but his reluctance to perform it live would ultimately lead to his departure from the band.
The song’s meaning is rooted in the idea of pushing oneself to the limit, exploring the boundaries of one’s life and experiences. Meisner has said that the song was inspired by the feeling of getting older and wanting to make the most of every day. The song’s waltz-time rhythm and soaring harmonies create a sense of longing and yearning, making it a standout track in the Eagles’ catalog.
“Take It to the Limit” has been performed live by the band over 870 times, making it one of their most-performed songs. The song’s live performances were often marked by tension and controversy, particularly between Meisner and Frey. Meisner’s struggles to hit the high notes in the song led to disputes and eventually his departure from the band.
Despite its tumultuous history, “Take It to the Limit” remains a beloved song in the Eagles’ repertoire. The song has been re-recorded by Meisner on his solo album, and has been performed by various members of the band over the years. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless melody and the band’s ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences.
In conclusion, “Take It to the Limit” is a song that embodies the spirit of the Eagles’ music – a blend of catchy melodies, poignant lyrics, and memorable performances. The song’s journey from its inception to its eventual departure from the band’s setlist is a fascinating tale of creative collaboration, personal struggles, and the evolution of a band’s sound.
Video
Lyrics
All alone at the end of the evening
And the bright lights have faded to blue
I was thinking ’bout a woman
Who might have loved me
I never knew
You know I’ve always been a dreamer (spent my life running round)
And it’s so hard to change
Can’t seem to settle down
But the dreams I’ve seen lately
Keep on turning out and burning out and turning out the same
So put me on a highway
Show me a sign
Take it to the limit
One more time
You can spend all your time making money
You can spend all your love making time
If it all fell to pieces tomorrow
Would you still be mine?
And when you’re looking for your freedom (nobody seems to care)
And you can’t find the door
(can’t find it anywhere)
When there’s nothing to believe in
Still you’re coming back
You’re running back
You’re coming back for more…
Put me on a highway
Show me a sign
Take it to the limit
One more time
Take it to the limit
Take it to the limit
Take it to the limit
One more time
(take it to the limit)
W-e-e…
(take it to the limit)
Come on
(take it to the limit)
One more time
(take it to the limit)
W-e-e…
(take it to the limit)
We gotta
(take it to the limit)
One more time…
(take it to the limit)
(take it to the limit)
(take it to the limit)
One more time
(take it to the limit)
W-e-e…
(take it to the limit)
Come on
(take it to the limit)
One more time
(take it to the limit)
Aaah-aaah-aaah
(take it to the limit)
Aaah-aaah
(take it to the limit)
One more time…
(take it to the limit)
(take it to the limit)