Meaning of Lick And A Promise by Aerosmith

When it comes to rock and roll anthems, Aerosmith's "Lick And A Promise" surely fits the bill. This energetic track takes us on a journey through the life of a carefree, rebellious individual who lives for the moment and doesn't worry about the consequences. The song's overall theme revolves around indulgence and living life on one's own terms, regardless of societal norms or expectations. With a catchy chorus and a gritty guitar-driven sound, "Lick And A Promise" stands as a testament to the rock and roll spirit.The lyrics of this Aerosmith gem are filled with evocative imagery and clever wordplay that add depth and meaning to the song's overarching theme. Let's dive into a few standout lyrics and explore the imaginative themes they help to develop.In the opening verse, we are introduced to the protagonist, Johnny, who is described as a "Johnny come lately" with a penchant for Saturday night revelry and a knack for stealing the show. Here, the lyrics evoke a sense of spontaneity and living in the moment, emphasizing the idea that Johnny is unafraid to take risks and grab life by the horns. This theme of seizing the day is further accentuated by the line "The money come sour but the ladies are sweet." It suggests that Johnny may not have much material wealth, but he finds his riches in the connections he makes with others and the experiences he shares with them.The chorus of "Lick And A Promise" contains a repetitive chant-like structure that adds a certain rebellious spirit to the song. The line "He gets his woman every night for free" is deceptively provocative, hinting at a deeper theme of personal liberation and breaking free from societal conventions. The concept of obtaining love or gratification on one's own terms is a recurring motif throughout the song. It serves as a reminder to live authentically, pursue what makes us happy, and not conform to societal expectations.Another striking lyric in the song is "Lick and a promise," which is repeated multiple times throughout the chorus. This phrase holds a double meaning that adds an unexpected twist to the song's themes. On the surface, "lick and a promise" refers to a hasty or half-hearted effort to complete a task. However, the phrase also suggests finding satisfaction or contentment through a brief interaction or momentary pleasure. This interpretation reinforces the overall theme of embracing life's experiences without overthinking or obsessing over details.As the song progresses, we learn more about Johnny's life and his journey towards rock and roll stardom. The lyric "Loose change grubber in his early, early years" paints a picture of Johnny's struggle during his youth, scraping by with limited means. This theme echoes the underlying message of the song, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and never losing sight of your dreams, no matter the obstacles.Ultimately, "Lick And A Promise" is a powerful and rebellious anthem that encourages listeners to embrace their individuality, chase their dreams, and find fulfillment on their own terms. Through Johnny's story and the imaginative themes explored in the lyrics, Aerosmith delivers a spirited rock and roll anthem that resonates with the human desire for freedom and self-expression. So, the next time life throws you a curveball, remember to take a lick and a promise, and rock on like there's no tomorrow!