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 gave you my love
But you threw it straight back in my face
I should have known better
You're just perfume and lace
You're messing around
You're making a fool out of me
But I've had enough baby
I'm setting you free
But I gave you all the chances
I gave you all the signs
Now who's the lonely one
Were you just a waste of time
Empty promises
I remember the days
When it used to be good
We were always together
We both understand
But something went wrong
White turned to black
So I'm leaving you baby
I ain't coming back
But I gave you all the chances
I gave you all the signs
Now who's the lonely one
Were you just a waste of time
Empty promises
But I gave you all the chances
I gave you all the signs
Now who's the lonely one
Were you just a waste of time
Empty promises
But you threw it straight back in my face
I should have known better
You're just perfume and lace
You're messing around
You're making a fool out of me
But I've had enough baby
I'm setting you free
But I gave you all the chances
I gave you all the signs
Now who's the lonely one
Were you just a waste of time
Empty promises
I remember the days
When it used to be good
We were always together
We both understand
But something went wrong
White turned to black
So I'm leaving you baby
I ain't coming back
But I gave you all the chances
I gave you all the signs
Now who's the lonely one
Were you just a waste of time
Empty promises
But I gave you all the chances
I gave you all the signs
Now who's the lonely one
Were you just a waste of time
Empty promises
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