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.
you're better untouched
It's better I never knew you
And I want nothing to do with this
And you never made up your mind
And I never changed mine
You know
You're emotionless
And filled with chemicals
To kick you up and down
And bring you to the ground
(a likely story
The pain is temporary)
I'm glad to see you go away
Stay where you are
If you want to stay
And I can't be what you want me to be
So you can do what you want to do
(a likely story
The pain is temporary)
I want nothing to do with this
If everyone here was my friend
You can't remember the last time
You had such a bad time
And you never made up your mind
And I never changed mine
You know
Left with so much to decide
Inside you're dying
You're emotionless
And filled with chemicals
To kick you up and down
And bring you to the ground
(a likely story
The pain is temporary)
I might as well speak to the back of your head
I'm glad to see you go away
Lyrics submitted by kristensicle
Circus of the Stars Lyrics as written by
Lyrics © ROUGH TRADE PUBLISHING
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Light Up The Sky
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Gentle Hour
Yo La Tengo
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This song was originally written by a guy called Peter Gutteridge. He was one of the founders of the "Dunedin Sound" a musical scene in the south of New Zealand in the early 80s. From there it was covered by "The Clean" one of the early bands of that scene (he had originally been a member of in it's early days, writing a couple of their best early songs). The Dunedin sound, and the Clean became popular on american college radio in the mid to late 80s. I guess Yo La Tengo heard that version.
Great version of a great song,
Just A Little Lovin'
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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/
Amazing
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran tells a story of unsuccessfully trying to feel “Amazing.” This track is about the being weighed down by emotional stress despite valiant attempts to find some positivity in the situation. This track was written by Ed Sheeran from the perspective of his friend. From the track, we see this person fall deeper into the negative thoughts and slide further down the path of mental torment with every lyric.
American Town
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran shares a short story of reconnecting with an old flame on “American Town.” The track is about a holiday Ed Sheeran spends with his countrywoman who resides in America. The two are back together after a long period apart, and get around to enjoying a bunch of fun activities while rekindling the flames of their romance.
yea I agree with redandbluejeans, it's about the songwriter not being able to tolerate the presence of his friend/girlfriend/family member because of their drug problem.