Rattle Snake Shake

Mötley Crüe's 'Rattle Snake Shake' is a high-energy, provocative anthem that captures the essence of the band's glam metal style. The song is a celebration of sensuality and the magnetic power of a woman's dance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who is both a 'sex machine' and a 'voodoo child,' using her movements to captivate and enthrall those around her. The repeated references to the 'rattlesnake shake' suggest a dance that is both hypnotic and dangerous, much like the rattlesnake itself.

The song's imagery is rich with metaphors that liken the woman's dance to the movements of a snake. Phrases like 'she keeps her engine hot' and 'slides through the night with a viper's smile' evoke a sense of both allure and peril. The 'rattlesnake shake' becomes a symbol of irresistible temptation, a dance that can 'make my body ache' and is 'all I can take.' This duality of attraction and danger is a common theme in rock and metal music, reflecting the genre's fascination with the darker, more primal aspects of human nature.

Mötley Crüe's use of vivid, almost cinematic language adds to the song's impact. The lyrics invite listeners to visualize the scene, making the experience more immersive. The mention of 'call 9-7-6 and let my hand do the rest' adds a layer of explicitness, emphasizing the song's raw, unfiltered approach to sexuality. This aligns with Mötley Crüe's reputation for pushing boundaries and embracing a hedonistic lifestyle. 'Rattle Snake Shake' is not just a song; it's an invitation to lose oneself in the moment, to embrace the wild and untamed aspects of desire and attraction.