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,
(Shh)
Here, somewhere in the heart of me
There is still a part of me that cares
And I'll, I'll still take the best you've got
Even though I'm sure it's not the best for me
When you're born a lover
Born to suffer
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
I, I can see the danger signs
They only help to underline your beauty
I'm not looking for an easy ride
True happiness cannot be tried so easily
When you're born a lover
You're born to suffer
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
You can take your time
I'll be waitin' in line
You don't even have to give me the time of day
When you're born a lover
You're born to suffer
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
(Shh)
Here, somewhere in the heart of me
There is still a part of me that cares
And I'll, I'll still take the best you've got
Even though I'm sure it's not the best for me
When you're born a lover
Born to suffer
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
I, I can see the danger signs
They only help to underline your beauty
I'm not looking for an easy ride
True happiness cannot be tried so easily
When you're born a lover
You're born to suffer
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
You can take your time
I'll be waitin' in line
You don't even have to give me the time of day
When you're born a lover
You're born to suffer
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
Like all soul sisters and soul brothers
(Shh)
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Yo La Tengo
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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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Page
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I think this song is about getting into a relationship and realizing that you won't always get your way. As it says, lovers are "born to suffer", meaning they'll make sacrifices for the one they love in order to make them happy.