• Album: Hey Man (1996)
• Track Number: 2
• Length: ~4:30
• Genre: Hard Rock / Melodic Rock
• Band Lineup:
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Eric Martin – vocals
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Paul Gilbert – guitar
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Billy Sheehan – bass
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Pat Torpey – drums
What the Song Is About
"Take Cover" is a song about emotional vulnerability, disillusionment, and self-protection after being hurt. The narrator has clearly experienced betrayal or heartbreak, and the lyrics suggest a need to shield himself from further pain, both emotionally and mentally.
Key theme:
You can't trust what you thought was real — so you take cover, shut down, and guard your heart.
Notable lyrics:
“Take cover, do like I told you / Stay put inside of your room”
— speaks directly to a kind of emotional retreat, almost like someone talking to themselves.
“It's a mind game / You play with your own head”
— explores the internal battle of overthinking and self-doubt.
Musical Style & Performance
• Driven by Paul Gilbert’s razor-sharp guitar riffs and Billy Sheehan’s intricate bass work, the song has a classic ‘90s hard rock feel — melodic but heavy.
• Eric Martin’s vocal performance is controlled yet passionate, adding emotional weight without being overly theatrical.
• The chorus is catchy, but laced with melancholy — it walks the line between rock anthem and introspective confession.
Tone and Atmosphere
• The song sounds slick and powerful, but the lyrics reflect isolation, paranoia, and inner turmoil.
• There’s a slight post-grunge edge to the sound, but it’s still very much in line with Mr. Big’s melodic rock roots.
• The instrumental solo section is technical yet tasteful — not flashy for the sake of it, but expressive.
Legacy and Notes
• Released as a single in Japan, where Mr. Big has a huge fan base, and included in several greatest hits compilations.
• Though not as internationally famous as To Be With You, “Take Cover” shows the darker, more mature side of the band.
• It’s often praised by fans for its tight songwriting, strong hook, and emotional honesty.