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.
Friday night at midnight
Looking for what I need
I heard a tale that somewhere
That a dude had a real go at me
So like a rat race cowboy
I slipped into the human zoo
Headed down for trouble
Got myself a drink or two
Well I took to the streets
And I took to the falls
Marched right in but I didn't get involved
Manager said hey boy there's the door
But I didn't leave until I evened the score
[Chorus]
I gotta face the hangman
Gotta pay for what I done
I gotta face the hangman
Or by the noose I swing
In the morning sun
Like a tipsy gypsy
Looking like I'd been had
But like the story says
This wild-eyed boy is bad
I got a police squad car
Taxi to the local slammer
They said
Son you're gonna pay for what you've done
I don't give a damn
Just cause I like to drink and dance all night
Just cause I like cat brawling, an old fist fight
Give me no lip boy or I'll kick you in the mouth
Watch you head fly open and your teeth fly out
[Chorus]
Now the judge looked at me and said
That boy, he's definitely guilty
Ooooh let him swing
[Chorus x2]
Looking for what I need
I heard a tale that somewhere
That a dude had a real go at me
So like a rat race cowboy
I slipped into the human zoo
Headed down for trouble
Got myself a drink or two
Well I took to the streets
And I took to the falls
Marched right in but I didn't get involved
Manager said hey boy there's the door
But I didn't leave until I evened the score
[Chorus]
I gotta face the hangman
Gotta pay for what I done
I gotta face the hangman
Or by the noose I swing
In the morning sun
Like a tipsy gypsy
Looking like I'd been had
But like the story says
This wild-eyed boy is bad
I got a police squad car
Taxi to the local slammer
They said
Son you're gonna pay for what you've done
I don't give a damn
Just cause I like to drink and dance all night
Just cause I like cat brawling, an old fist fight
Give me no lip boy or I'll kick you in the mouth
Watch you head fly open and your teeth fly out
[Chorus]
Now the judge looked at me and said
That boy, he's definitely guilty
Ooooh let him swing
[Chorus x2]
Lyrics submitted by SongMeanings
Face The Hangman Lyrics as written by Bobby Dall Blues Saraceno
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics powered by LyricFind
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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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@[Diderik:33655] "Your a holiday!" Was a popular term used in the 50s/60s to compliment someone on their all around. For example, not only are they beautiful, but they are fun and kind too ... just an all around "holiday".
I think your first comment is closer to being accurate. The singer/song writers state "Millions of eyes can see, yet why am i so blind!? When the someone else is me, its unkind its unkind". I believe hes referring to the girl toying with him and using him. He wants something deeper with her, thats why he allows himself to be as a puppet (even though for her fun and games) as long as it makes her happy. But he knows deep down that she doesnt really want to be serious with him and thats what makes him.
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