“Turn That Heartbeat Over Again” is a Steely Dan song that delves into themes of regret, mortality, and accountability. The lyrics describe a person who takes chances that result in negative consequences and a need to make amends. The titular phrase serves as symbolism for a yearning to make things...
[Verse 1]
With stocking face I bought a gun
The plan was set, the plan was done
Looked at my watch and started for the door
Now the food here ain't so good no more
And they closed the package store
[Pre-Chorus]
Love your mama, love your brother
Love 'em till they run for cover
Turn the light off, keep your shirt on
Cry a jag on me
[Chorus]
Oh Michael, oh Jesus
You know I'm not to blame
You know my reputation
For playing a good clean game
Oh Michael, oh Jesus
I'll keep my promise when
You turn that heartbeat over again
[Verse 2]
My poison's named, you know my brand
So please make mine a double, Sam
Stir it up nice, I'll eat it right here
Yeah, this highway runs from Paraguay
And I've just come all the way
[Pre-Chorus]
Love your mama, love your brother
Love 'em till they run for cover
Turn the light off, keep your shirt on
Cry a jag on me
[Chorus]
Oh Michael, oh Jesus
You know I'm not to blame
You know my reputation
For playing a good clean game
Oh Michael, oh Jesus
I'll keep my promise when
You turn that heartbeat over again
[Instrumental Break]
[Verse 3]
We warned the corpse of William Wright
Not to cuss and drink all night
Ticket in hand, we saw him laid to rest
Woah, but zombie see and zombie do
He's here with me and you
[Pre-Chorus]
Love your mama, love your brother
Love 'em till they run for cover
Turn the light off, keep your shirt on
Cry a jag on me
[Chorus]
Oh Michael, oh Jesus
You know I'm not to blame
You know my reputation
For playing a good clean game
Oh Michael, oh Jesus
I'll keep my promise when
You turn that heartbeat over again
[Outro]
Turn that heartbeat over again
Turn That Heartbeat Over Again was written by Donald Fagen & Walter Becker.
Turn That Heartbeat Over Again was produced by Gary Katz.