Come and Take It

Zoo Freaks, get ready to crank up the volume as the Zoo Crew spins Come and Take It from Ted Nugent’s 2022 album Detroit Muscle! This track is a fiery, patriotic rock anthem that Nugent crafted as a bold salute to American First and Second Amendment rights. In a 2021 interview with Sonic Perspectives, Nugent described the song as an “All-American defiant battle hymn,” emphasizing its message to those who “dare tread on us.” He added a tongue-in-cheek twist, saying, “Being the all-time gonzo progenitor of love songs that I am, it’s only fitting that I unleash this.” The song’s title draws from the historic “Come and Take It” slogan, tied to the 1835 Battle of Gonzales, which Nugent uses to channel a modern call for individual liberty. He even previewed the track during a live Facebook broadcast in August 2021, hyping fans with its raw energy before its official release.

Another tidbit from Nugent’s own words on Pavement Music reveals his passion for the song’s Detroit roots. He called the album, and this track in particular, a “suckerpunch of Detroit Muscle,” reflecting the high-energy soul of his hometown. Nugent also took to X on November 12, 2021, to share the official lyric video, rallying fans to embrace the song’s unapologetic spirit. The track’s production, handled by Nugent and Michael Lutz, keeps things gritty and organic, with Nugent’s signature Gibson Byrdland guitar riffs blazing alongside the tight rhythm section of Greg Smith on bass and Jason Hartless on drums. For Zoo Freaks who love a good riff, this one’s a head-banger that doesn’t quit.

Ted Nugent, known as the Motor City Madman, kicked off his musical journey in Detroit, Michigan, where he was born on December 13, 1948. Growing up in a military family, Nugent was steeped in discipline but found his rebellious streak through music. In the early 1960s, he formed his first band, The Lourds, while still a teenager. By 1963, he was leading The Amboy Dukes, a psychedelic rock outfit that scored a hit with Journey to the Center of Your Mind. Frustrated by the band’s lack of focus, Nugent disbanded them in 1975 and launched his solo career with a self-titled debut album on Epic Records. Tracks like Stranglehold and Hey Baby showcased his wild guitar style and larger-than-life stage presence, earning him the nickname “Uncle Ted.” His early solo albums, including Free-for-All (1976) and Cat Scratch Fever (1977), went multi-platinum, cementing his status as a rock icon.

Nugent’s career has spanned over five decades, with more than 40 million albums sold and over 6,750 live performances. His high-octane shows and bluesy guitar work have kept fans hooked, from his days with The Amboy Dukes to his 2023 farewell “Adios Mofo Tour.” Beyond music, Nugent’s love for hunting and the outdoors shaped his public persona, leading to TV shows like Ted Nugent Spirit of the Wild on The Outdoor Channel. His unfiltered personality and outspoken views have made him a polarizing figure, but his musical legacy—rooted in Detroit’s raw energy—remains undeniable. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, Nugent’s official website at tednugent.com is the go-to spot for tour dates, merch, and news.

Connect with Nugent and fellow fans across social media to keep the rock ‘n’ roll spirit alive. His official Facebook page is a hub for updates, live videos, and fan interactions, while his Instagram offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life on and off stage. On X, Nugent’s posts are as bold as his music, often sparking lively debates among followers. For Zoo Freaks wanting to join the fan community, check out the Ted Nugent Fans Facebook group, where diehards share stories, rare photos, and concert memories. Another great fan-driven spot is the Ted Nugent – The Nuge group, buzzing with discussions about his music and legacy. So, crank up Come and Take It, Zoo Freaks, and let the Motor City Madman’s spirit roar!