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.
Fight, fight tooth and nail
Fight, fight tooth and nail
It's the law of the jungle
The strongest will survive
And that's the rule I live by
Think fast and stay alive
Keep the eye of the tiger
Gather cunning, strength and speed
Use evry trick you know
Don't retreat until they bleed
Your hand's a dwadly weapon
Your teeth can rip in two
Get'em before they get you
There's no more time to loose
[Chorus]
Fight, fight tooth and nail
If you think they'll show you mercy
You better think again
You gotta fight
I'm akin to the lion, the tiger and the bear
I use what nature gives, to rip and
Slash and tear
I'm really very gentle, rather make love
Than go to war
But if you try to harm me
You'll die by neture's law
My hand's a deadly weapon,
My teeth can rip in two
A present of death I give you
I'll run you through and through
[Chorus]
Once more into the cobra's nest
A poisoned victory
Blood stains the sands of history
If you'll wage war, you'll get no pity from me, oh no...
[Chorus]
Fight, fight tooth and nail
It's the law of the jungle
The strongest will survive
And that's the rule I live by
Think fast and stay alive
Keep the eye of the tiger
Gather cunning, strength and speed
Use evry trick you know
Don't retreat until they bleed
Your hand's a dwadly weapon
Your teeth can rip in two
Get'em before they get you
There's no more time to loose
[Chorus]
Fight, fight tooth and nail
If you think they'll show you mercy
You better think again
You gotta fight
I'm akin to the lion, the tiger and the bear
I use what nature gives, to rip and
Slash and tear
I'm really very gentle, rather make love
Than go to war
But if you try to harm me
You'll die by neture's law
My hand's a deadly weapon,
My teeth can rip in two
A present of death I give you
I'll run you through and through
[Chorus]
Once more into the cobra's nest
A poisoned victory
Blood stains the sands of history
If you'll wage war, you'll get no pity from me, oh no...
[Chorus]
Lyrics submitted by SongMeanings
Fight Tooth and Nail Lyrics as written by David Defeis
Lyrics © DEFEIS MUSIC
Lyrics powered by LyricFind
Add your thoughts
Log in now to tell us what you think this song means.
Don’t have an account? Create an account with SongMeanings to post comments, submit lyrics, and more. It’s super easy, we promise!
More Featured Meanings
Light Up The Sky
Van Halen
Van Halen
Holiday
Bee Gees
Bee Gees
@[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.
Dreamwalker
Silent Planet
Silent Planet
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.
Just A Little Lovin'
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/
Head > Heels
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran
“Head > Heels” is a track that aims to capture what it feels like to experience romance that exceeds expectations. Ed Sheeran dedicates his album outro to a lover who has blessed him with a unique experience that he seeks to describe through the song’s nuanced lyrics.