Let Me Entertain You

About

Let Me Entertain You became Robbie Williams' definitive opening statement — a swaggering rock anthem that cemented his identity as a solo performer. Released in March 1998 as the fifth single from Life Thru a Lens, it combined theatrical flair with biting self-awareness, showcasing his mix of humour and bravado.

Written by Williams and Guy Chambers, the track channels glam-rock energy reminiscent of Queen and The Rolling Stones. It opens many of his live shows to this day, underscoring its place as his unofficial calling card. The lyrics playfully blur the line between performer and provocateur, capturing the tension between showmanship and sincerity.

It was me saying, 'Right, if I’m going to be famous, I might as well enjoy it.' I wanted to make people laugh and scare them a bit too.Robbie Williams

The song’s iconic guitar riff and driving tempo gave Williams a platform to unleash his full stage persona. Producer Steve Power later recalled that the recording sessions were electric, with Williams fully in command of the room. Its bold opening line — "Hell is gone and heaven’s here" — set the tone for his transformation from troubled ex–boyband star to confident frontman.

Robbie was fearless in that session. He was ready to perform again, and Let Me Entertain You captured that perfectly.Guy Chambers

The black-and-white music video, directed by Vaughan Arnell, featured Williams as a sinister glam-rock clown — part Marilyn Manson, part Freddie Mercury — a character he would later revive on tour. Though it peaked at No. 3 in the UK, its impact far outlasted its chart run.

More than two decades later, Let Me Entertain You remains Williams’ most explosive live opener: a celebration of performance, excess, and the thrill of owning the spotlight.