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 knew a man Bojangles
And he danced for you
In worn out shoes
With silver hair, a ragged shirt and baggy pants
The old soft shoe
He jumped so high, jumped so high
Then he lightly touched down
I met him in a cell in New Orleans
I was down and out
He looked at me to be the eyes of age
As he spoke right out
He talked of life, he talked of life
He laughed and slapped his leg a step
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles danced
He said his name, Bojangles
Then he danced a lick
Across the cell
He grabbed his pants, a better stance
Oh, he jumped up high
He clicked his heels
He let go a laugh, let go a laugh
He stood up and shook back his clothes all around
He danced for those at minstrel shows and county fairs
Throughout the south
He spoke with tears of fifteen years
How his dog and he traveled about
His dog up and died, he just up and died
After twenty years he still grieved
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles danced
He said, I dance now at every chance in honky tonks
For drinks and tips
But most of the time I spend behind these county bars
He said, I drinks a bit
He shook his head and as he shook his head
I heard someone respectfully ask, please
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles danced
And he danced for you
In worn out shoes
With silver hair, a ragged shirt and baggy pants
The old soft shoe
He jumped so high, jumped so high
Then he lightly touched down
I met him in a cell in New Orleans
I was down and out
He looked at me to be the eyes of age
As he spoke right out
He talked of life, he talked of life
He laughed and slapped his leg a step
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles danced
He said his name, Bojangles
Then he danced a lick
Across the cell
He grabbed his pants, a better stance
Oh, he jumped up high
He clicked his heels
He let go a laugh, let go a laugh
He stood up and shook back his clothes all around
He danced for those at minstrel shows and county fairs
Throughout the south
He spoke with tears of fifteen years
How his dog and he traveled about
His dog up and died, he just up and died
After twenty years he still grieved
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles danced
He said, I dance now at every chance in honky tonks
For drinks and tips
But most of the time I spend behind these county bars
He said, I drinks a bit
He shook his head and as he shook his head
I heard someone respectfully ask, please
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles danced
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Hayalperest
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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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I think much like another song “Anti-Matter” (that's also on the same album as this song), this one is also is inspired by a horrifying van crash the band experienced on Nov 3, 2022. This, much like the other track, sounds like it's an extension what they shared while huddled in the wreckage, as they helped frontman Garrett Russell stem the bleeding from his head wound while he was under the temporary effects of a concussion. The track speaks of where the mind goes at the most desperate & desolate of times, when it just about slips away to all but disconnect itself, and the aftermath.
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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/
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“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.
The most beautiful version of this song.