"Lay It On The Line" was written by Triumph founder and co-frontman Rik Emmett. Though this was a modest early peak at #86 on the US Hot 100 after their breakout hit "Hold On," they were also on their way to their first Juno award nomination in 1979. Triumph hails from Ontario, Canada, and claims Rush as an influence. They're also part of the harder-edged progressive power-rock movement of the late '70s.
In 2012, Rik Emmett told us that his "bread gets buttered" because of the success of "Lay It On The Line." He elaborated by saying that the whole Just A Game album was huge for the band.
Lyrics
It's the same old story all over again
You turn a lover into just another friend
I want to love you, I want to make you mine
Won't you lay it on the line?
I'm tired of playing all your foolish games
I'm tired of all of your lies making me insane
I don't ask for much, the truth'll do just fine
won't' you lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Don't waste my time
Lay it on the line
You got no right to make me wait
We better talk, girl, before it gets too late
I never thought you could be so unkind
Won't you lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Don't waste my time
Lay it on the line
You know I love you, you know it's true
It's up to you, girl, what've I got to do
Don't hold me up, girl, don't waste my precious time
Won't you lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Don't waste my time
Lay it on the line
Songwriters: Gil Moore / Mike Levine / Rik Emmett
Lay It on the Line lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
