"You've Got the Gun" is a song by the Australian rock band Sherbet. It was released in October 1972 as the fourth and final single from the band's debut studio album Time Change... A Natural Progression. The song was written by Sherbet members Garth Porter, Clive Shakespeare, and Daryl Braithwaite, and produced by Howard Gable.
Background and Release
The single was released on the Infinity and Festival labels with the B-side "Do It." The song charted at number 29 on the Australian Go-Set chart and number 27 on the Kent Music Report.
Track Listing
| No. | Title | Writer(s) | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "You've Got the Gun" | Garth Porter, Clive Shakespeare, Daryl Braithwaite | 3:10 |
| 2. | "Do It" | Porter, Shakespeare | 2:14 |
Personnel
- Alan Sandow – drums, percussion, bongoes, chimes
- Daryl Braithwaite – lead vocals, tambourine, tabla
- Clive Shakespeare – guitar, vocals
- Garth Porter – keyboards, clavinet, piano, lead vocals, backing vocals, Hammond organ, electric piano, synthesiser
Lyrics and Interpretation
The lyrics use a gun-and-target metaphor to describe a relationship that has turned destructive. The narrator describes being the "target" of a former lover's affection, which has transformed into psychological attack. Lines such as "I was the target of your love" and "Now you're shootin' at my head" depict the shift from romance to emotional warfare. The reference to "Bonnie and Clyde" underscores the theme of a partnership that has devolved into violence.
Chart Performance
| Chart (1972) | Peak position |
|---|---|
| Australia (Go-Set) | 29 |
| Australia (Kent Music Report) | 27 |
