The song lyrics were written by the band Van Halen, as they were asked to write a song for the 1979 movie "Over the Edge" starring Matt Dillon. The movie (and the lyrics, although more obliquely) are about bored, rebellious youth with nothing better to do than get into trouble. If you see the movie, these lyrics will make more sense. It's a great movie if you grew up in the 70s/80s you'll definitely remember some of these characters from your own life. Fun fact, after writing the song, Van Halen decided not to let the movie use it.
Pretending you don't see me smile
When I hear your name
We were only friends for a while
I've known you for so long mama
Living right here beneath your eyes
Hey my lonely friend
It all comes down to
Run your words to ruin but we're scared to touch
Too much a likeness
Run your words to ruin but we're scared to touch
Too much a likeness
Until you find me
Twisting on this broken swing
We liked to talk about who was a fool born in love
I was just a red faced boy with a diamond ring
And no one left to love
Hey my lonely friend, it all comes down to
Run your words to ruin but we're scared to touch
Too much a likeness
Run your words to ruin but we're scared to touch
Too much a likeness
I'll be Uncle Joe and you be Aunt Bunny
Still getting caught up in the crossroads my dear
On up to Canada fall down to west Cheyenne
The Texas nights never seemed so warm she said
She, she said...she said, she said
I dont even care where I'm going
I don't even care
I've got to see you around, I've got to go
Too much a likeness
When I hear your name
We were only friends for a while
I've known you for so long mama
Living right here beneath your eyes
Hey my lonely friend
It all comes down to
Run your words to ruin but we're scared to touch
Too much a likeness
Run your words to ruin but we're scared to touch
Too much a likeness
Until you find me
Twisting on this broken swing
We liked to talk about who was a fool born in love
I was just a red faced boy with a diamond ring
And no one left to love
Hey my lonely friend, it all comes down to
Run your words to ruin but we're scared to touch
Too much a likeness
Run your words to ruin but we're scared to touch
Too much a likeness
I'll be Uncle Joe and you be Aunt Bunny
Still getting caught up in the crossroads my dear
On up to Canada fall down to west Cheyenne
The Texas nights never seemed so warm she said
She, she said...she said, she said
I dont even care where I'm going
I don't even care
I've got to see you around, I've got to go
Too much a likeness
Lyrics submitted by tophergannon
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In regards to the meaning of this song:
Before a live performance on the EP Five Stories Falling, Geoff states “It’s about the last time I went to visit my grandmother in Columbus, and I saw that she was dying and it was the last time I was going to see her. It is about realizing how young you are, but how quickly you can go.”
That’s the thing about Geoff and his sublime poetry, you think it’s about one thing, but really it’s about something entirely different. But the lyrics are still universal and omnipresent, ubiquitous, even. So relatable. That’s one thing I love about this band. I also love their live performances, raw energy and Geoff’s beautiful, imperfectly perfect vocals. His voice soothes my aching soul.
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This is about bronies. They communicate by stomping.
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I think much like another song “Anti-Matter” (that's also on the same album as this song), this one is also is inspired by a horrifying van crash the band experienced on Nov 3, 2022. This, much like the other track, sounds like it's an extension what they shared while huddled in the wreckage, as they helped frontman Garrett Russell stem the bleeding from his head wound while he was under the temporary effects of a concussion. The track speaks of where the mind goes at the most desperate & desolate of times, when it just about slips away to all but disconnect itself, and the aftermath.
Just A Little Lovin'
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I don't think it's necessarily about sex. It's about wanting to start the day with some love and affection. Maybe a warm cuddle. I'm not alone in interpreting it that way! For example:
"'Just a Little Lovin’ is a timeless country song originally recorded by Eddy Arnold in 1954. The song, written by Eddie Miller and Jimmy Campbell, explores the delicate nuances of love and showcases Arnold’s emotive vocals. It delves into the universal theme of love and how even the smallest gesture of affection can have a profound impact on our lives." https://oldtimemusic.com/the-meaning-behind-the-song-just-a-little-lovin-by-eddy-arnold/
This song has a really great beat. Can't help but to tap your toes and sing along.