" The Stroke " is a song written and recorded by American rock artist Billy Squier. It was released in 1981 as the debut single from his 3× platinum album Don't Say No.

Jun 26, 2023 · The meaning behind Billy Squier’s 1981 hard rock hit “The Stroke” is easily mistaken as a sexual one. And for good reason. The pulsating beat, shrieking vocals, and insistent chants of...

But, according to Billy Squier in an interview with VH1, the song is actually about the music business. Record labels will "stroke" the egos of their artists by telling them how great they are and how they're …

Why is “The Stroke” considered a rebellious song? “The Stroke” has a rebellious attitude because it calls out the deceptive practices of the music industry while encouraging listeners to be wary of …

Mar 9, 2025 · Structured around a call and response, ‘The Stroke’ ostensibly invites the listener into ‘the game,’ a metaphoric battleground for fame. The song’s driving beat and infectious chorus become …

Discover the story behind Billy Squier's iconic song "The Stroke" and its chart-topping success. Get to know the meaning behind the lyrics and the impact it had on the charts.

Nov 28, 2023 · Squier uses the metaphor of ‘stroking,’ implying flattery and manipulation, to depict how artists often get exploited. The song is a universal commentary on the industry.