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.
Tell me why, tell me why
Why are they always pushing me?
Block my vision so I can't see
Hold me down while they grind on me
Mind your own, just let me be
Go let them in, there are our friends
As long as they play Monopoly
Nothing to hide, set up the scene
Heading a false reality
We need a hype, got a hype
If we believe in what they say
Closer to me, rather behind
It don't seem so far away
Watch your mouth on mindless beach
Be your best, stay on your feet
Cry to so when you weep
Why are they always hounding me?
Why? Tell me why?
Brother's crying, sons are dying
Sounds of weapons, bullets flying
Never giving always taking
Filled with lies, always faking
Never carry, never shake
Always rough and overbearing
Why do you want to fight with me?
Tell me why, tell me why
Sell them tractors, give them seeds
Help them boost their economy
Let them up and hear their pleads
Mind your own, just set them free
It's closer than you know
Why are they always pushing me?
Block my vision so I can't see
Hold me down while they grind on me
Mind your own, just let me be
Go let them in, there are our friends
As long as they play Monopoly
Nothing to hide, set up the scene
Heading a false reality
We need a hype, got a hype
If we believe in what they say
Closer to me, rather behind
It don't seem so far away
Watch your mouth on mindless beach
Be your best, stay on your feet
Cry to so when you weep
Why are they always hounding me?
Why? Tell me why?
Brother's crying, sons are dying
Sounds of weapons, bullets flying
Never giving always taking
Filled with lies, always faking
Never carry, never shake
Always rough and overbearing
Why do you want to fight with me?
Tell me why, tell me why
Sell them tractors, give them seeds
Help them boost their economy
Let them up and hear their pleads
Mind your own, just set them free
It's closer than you know
Lyrics submitted by SongMeanings, edited by bippycat
Tell Me Why Lyrics as written by Greg Hetson Alexander Schloss
Lyrics © Wixen Music Publishing
Lyrics powered by LyricFind
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