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.
There wasn't anyone around
Another lonely night in your town
I think that you knew what you found
a friend to buy you another round
I know they told you about a man
He was a stain on the nation
I know that you do what you can
but it's an order not an invitation
What will you take to forget what you know
Now I'll show you where to sign
and await your execution
'Cause once you put it on the line
I'll be glad to take your contribution
You were attracted by the sound
of the machine generation
We've got to get you on the ground
There is no room for moderation
What will you take to forget what you know
What will you leave for a tip when you go
Laws to break and rules to bend them
Don't pretend you will defend them
Sit and you watch as they go
I know you've got a lot to give
Don't forget your will to live
Sit and you watch as they go
There was shooting all around
You saw a ditch and put your face in
And now it's trouble that you found
How did you end up in this situation
Hey it's gonna be alright
It won't be getting any worse then
You're gonna make it through the night
You're gonna try to be a better person
Another lonely night in your town
I think that you knew what you found
a friend to buy you another round
I know they told you about a man
He was a stain on the nation
I know that you do what you can
but it's an order not an invitation
What will you take to forget what you know
Now I'll show you where to sign
and await your execution
'Cause once you put it on the line
I'll be glad to take your contribution
You were attracted by the sound
of the machine generation
We've got to get you on the ground
There is no room for moderation
What will you take to forget what you know
What will you leave for a tip when you go
Laws to break and rules to bend them
Don't pretend you will defend them
Sit and you watch as they go
I know you've got a lot to give
Don't forget your will to live
Sit and you watch as they go
There was shooting all around
You saw a ditch and put your face in
And now it's trouble that you found
How did you end up in this situation
Hey it's gonna be alright
It won't be getting any worse then
You're gonna make it through the night
You're gonna try to be a better person
Lyrics submitted by Silent Solace
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not sure what it's about but this is such a catchy song