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.
Supposed to be the same
Like everyone else
So they don't have to deal with me
Or have to go through hell
Supposed to be a clone
Don't want to be like them
I won't fit in the mold
My Individuality is what they don't understand
They don't listen to me
They don't see the master plan
My parents tilt their heads and say
"Do your best everyday.
Try to make us proud.
Don't fail us now.
We're counting on you all the way."
I know it's because they love me
And I know its bacause they care
But what they really need to do is be aware that i'm...
On my own now
Not everybody is born to save the world
Not every man is rich
Not every guy gets the girl
Not everyone strives to be the star of the team
Date the coolest girl or be the homecoming king
Try to make me the coolest
They try to make me the best
But i'm not gonna be like them
No, not like the rest!
I challenge you to be on your own
Try to venture out into the unknown
It's hard to stand alone in a crowd
Do all you can and shout out loud!
On my own now
Like everyone else
So they don't have to deal with me
Or have to go through hell
Supposed to be a clone
Don't want to be like them
I won't fit in the mold
My Individuality is what they don't understand
They don't listen to me
They don't see the master plan
My parents tilt their heads and say
"Do your best everyday.
Try to make us proud.
Don't fail us now.
We're counting on you all the way."
I know it's because they love me
And I know its bacause they care
But what they really need to do is be aware that i'm...
On my own now
Not everybody is born to save the world
Not every man is rich
Not every guy gets the girl
Not everyone strives to be the star of the team
Date the coolest girl or be the homecoming king
Try to make me the coolest
They try to make me the best
But i'm not gonna be like them
No, not like the rest!
I challenge you to be on your own
Try to venture out into the unknown
It's hard to stand alone in a crowd
Do all you can and shout out loud!
On my own now
Lyrics submitted by x_melancholy_x
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