The song was written almost fully by Ernie Isley with additional instrumental background composition by the band's keyboardist Chris Jasper.

The song reflected a negative opinion of authority figures, a feeling shared by all the band members, which can explain the intensified vocalizing by Ron, Rudy, and Kelly.

Though the track had a unison lead style, onstage during performances, Ron Isley would sing the majority of the song with his older brothers chipping in during some parts.

The success of the song also helped its album, The Heat Is On, reach number 1 on the pop chart.

The intense style of the record would be repeated by the Isleys during other recordings including "Livin' in the Life", "Climbin' Up The Ladder" and "The Pride", which like "Fight the Power" before it, included a unison lead vocal by Ron, Rudy, and Kelly.