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.
If I were a minstrel I'd sing you six love songs
To tell the whole world of the love that we share
If I were a merchant I'd bring you six diamonds
With six blood red roses for my love to wear
But I am a simple man, a poor common farmer
So take my six ribbons to tie back your hair
If I were a nobleman I'd bring you six carriages
And six snow white horses to take you anywhere
If I were the emperor I'd build you six palaces
With six hundred servants for comforting fare
But I am a simple man, a poor common farmer
So take my six ribbons to tie back your hair
If I were a minstrel I'd sing you six love songs
To tell the whole world of the love that we share
So be not afraid love, you're never alone love
While you wear my ribbons to tie back your hair
Once I was a simple man, a poor common farmer
I gave you six ribbons to tie back your hair
Too-ra-lee, too-ra-lie, all I can share
Is only six ribbons to tie back your hair
To tell the whole world of the love that we share
If I were a merchant I'd bring you six diamonds
With six blood red roses for my love to wear
But I am a simple man, a poor common farmer
So take my six ribbons to tie back your hair
If I were a nobleman I'd bring you six carriages
And six snow white horses to take you anywhere
If I were the emperor I'd build you six palaces
With six hundred servants for comforting fare
But I am a simple man, a poor common farmer
So take my six ribbons to tie back your hair
If I were a minstrel I'd sing you six love songs
To tell the whole world of the love that we share
So be not afraid love, you're never alone love
While you wear my ribbons to tie back your hair
Once I was a simple man, a poor common farmer
I gave you six ribbons to tie back your hair
Too-ra-lee, too-ra-lie, all I can share
Is only six ribbons to tie back your hair
Lyrics submitted by sokorny
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