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.
I read the mornin' paper
To my surprise and shame
Said a black eye of embarrassment
Been attached to Jesus' name
Some mortal man convicted of some moldy moral sin
And the skeptics wage their tongues and say
"There goes that Jesus again"
The story graced the TV
And the magazines too long
And if my heart ain't broken yet
There must be somethin' wrong
Because but for the grace of God
I know it could be me
And all that's left for me to do
Is to help the world to see
[Chorus]
That's not Jesus
He doesn't carry on that way
Just some flesh and blood like you and me
Somehow gone astray
That's not Jesus, no
No matter what "they" say
He doesn't need me to defend Him
He just wants me to obey
He just wants me to obey
Have you seen the masterpiece
Of Jesus on the cross
Well, if He's still a-hangin' there
I'm hopeless--I am lost
I believe the tomb is empty
And the stone's been rolled away
And because of all this trouble
I still feel compelled to say
[Chorus]
And if your vision of Him
Has gotten somehow blurred
By a stumbling soldier in the field
I'd like to say "I'm sorry"
And remind you of one thing
One day all the Truth will be revealed
[Chorus]
To my surprise and shame
Said a black eye of embarrassment
Been attached to Jesus' name
Some mortal man convicted of some moldy moral sin
And the skeptics wage their tongues and say
"There goes that Jesus again"
The story graced the TV
And the magazines too long
And if my heart ain't broken yet
There must be somethin' wrong
Because but for the grace of God
I know it could be me
And all that's left for me to do
Is to help the world to see
[Chorus]
That's not Jesus
He doesn't carry on that way
Just some flesh and blood like you and me
Somehow gone astray
That's not Jesus, no
No matter what "they" say
He doesn't need me to defend Him
He just wants me to obey
He just wants me to obey
Have you seen the masterpiece
Of Jesus on the cross
Well, if He's still a-hangin' there
I'm hopeless--I am lost
I believe the tomb is empty
And the stone's been rolled away
And because of all this trouble
I still feel compelled to say
[Chorus]
And if your vision of Him
Has gotten somehow blurred
By a stumbling soldier in the field
I'd like to say "I'm sorry"
And remind you of one thing
One day all the Truth will be revealed
[Chorus]
Lyrics submitted by SongMeanings
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Hayalperest
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This song seemingly tackles the methods of deception those who manipulate others use to get victims to follow their demands, as well as diverting attention away from important issues. They'll also use it as a means to convince people to hate or kill others by pretending acts of terrorism were committed by the enemy when the acts themselves were done by the masters of control to promote discrimination and hate. It also reinforces the idea that these manipulative forces operate in various locations, infiltrating everyday life without detection, and propagate any and everywhere.
In general, it highlights the danger of hidden agendas, manipulation, and distraction, serving as a critique of those who exploit chaos and confusion to control and gain power, depicting a cautionary tale against falling into their traps. It encourages us to question the narratives presented to us and remain vigilant against manipulation in various parts of society.
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Yo La Tengo
This song was originally written by a guy called Peter Gutteridge. He was one of the founders of the "Dunedin Sound" a musical scene in the south of New Zealand in the early 80s. From there it was covered by "The Clean" one of the early bands of that scene (he had originally been a member of in it's early days, writing a couple of their best early songs). The Dunedin sound, and the Clean became popular on american college radio in the mid to late 80s. I guess Yo La Tengo heard that version.
Great version of a great song,
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Dusty Springfield
Dusty Springfield
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/
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