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.
Some people are made of plastic
You know some people are made of wood
Some people have hearts of stone
Some people are up to no good
Ah, but baby, I'm for real
I'm as real as real can get
If what you're looking for
Is real loving
Then what you see
Is what you get
Ha, whatcha see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get (is whatcha get)
Whatcha see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get (is whatcha get)
I said, what you see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get, now baby (is whatcha get)
And the real thing is the best thing yet
(Is the best thing yet)
You know some people
Are made of lies
To bring you down
And shame your name
But baby, I have good intentions
(Good intentions)
'Cause breaking hearts just ain't my game
All I want to do is love you
And sugar I won't pin you with regret
If what you're looking for
Is real lovin' (real lovin')
Then what you see
Is what you get
I say again
Whatcha see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get (is whatcha get)
Look at me
Whatcha see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get (is whatcha get)
I mean, what you see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get, now baby (is whatcha get)
And the real thing is the best thing yet
(Is the best thing yet)
You know some people are made of wood
Some people have hearts of stone
Some people are up to no good
Ah, but baby, I'm for real
I'm as real as real can get
If what you're looking for
Is real loving
Then what you see
Is what you get
Ha, whatcha see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get (is whatcha get)
Whatcha see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get (is whatcha get)
I said, what you see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get, now baby (is whatcha get)
And the real thing is the best thing yet
(Is the best thing yet)
You know some people
Are made of lies
To bring you down
And shame your name
But baby, I have good intentions
(Good intentions)
'Cause breaking hearts just ain't my game
All I want to do is love you
And sugar I won't pin you with regret
If what you're looking for
Is real lovin' (real lovin')
Then what you see
Is what you get
I say again
Whatcha see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get (is whatcha get)
Look at me
Whatcha see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get (is whatcha get)
I mean, what you see (whatcha see)
Is whatcha get, now baby (is whatcha get)
And the real thing is the best thing yet
(Is the best thing yet)
Lyrics submitted by SongMeanings
What You See Is What You Get Lyrics as written by Anthony Hester
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics powered by LyricFind
Add your thoughts
Log in now to tell us what you think this song means.
Don’t have an account? Create an account with SongMeanings to post comments, submit lyrics, and more. It’s super easy, we promise!
More Featured Meanings
Light Up The Sky
Van Halen
Van Halen
Mental Istid
Ebba Grön
Ebba Grön
This is one of my favorite songs. https://fnfgo.io
Son Şansın - Şarkı Sözleri
Hayalperest
Hayalperest
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.
Just A Little Lovin'
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/
Blue
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran
“Blue” is a song about a love that is persisting in the discomfort of the person experiencing the emotion. Ed Sheeran reflects on love lost, and although he wishes his former partner find happiness, he cannot but admit his feelings are still very much there. He expresses the realization that he might never find another on this stringed instrumental by Aaron Dessner.