Ramones

Lyrics

[Intro]
1-2-3-4

[Verse 1]
When I'm lying in my bed at night
I don't want to grow up
Nothing ever seems to turn out right
I don't want to grow up

[Chorus]
How do you move in a world of fog that's
Always changing things
Makes me wish that I could be a dog

[Verse 2]
When I see the price that you pay
I don't want to grow up
I don't ever want to be that way
I don't want to grow up

[Chorus]
Seems that folks turn into things
That they never want
The only thing to live for is today

[Verse 3]
I'm gonna put a hole in my T.V. set
I don't want to grow up
Open up the medicine chest
I don't want to grow up
[Chorus]
I don't want to have to shout it out
I don't want my hair to fall out
I don't want to be filled with doubt
I don't want to be a good boy scout
I don't want to have to learn to count
I don't want to have the biggest amount
No, I don't want to grow up

[Verse 4]
Well, when I see my parents fight
I don't want to grow up
They all go out and drinking all night
And I don't want to grow up

[Chorus]
I'd rather stay here in my room
Nothing out there but sad and gloom
I don't want to live in a big old tomb on Grand Street

[Verse 5]
When I see the 5 o'clock news
I don't want to grow up
Comb their hair and shine their shoes
I don't wanna grow up
[Chorus]
Stay around in my old hometown
I don't want to put no money down
I don't want to get a big old loan
Work them fingers to the bone
I don't want to float on a broom
Fall in love, get married then boom
How the hell did it get here so soon
No, I don't want to grow upEmbed

Hey there, music lovers! Today, we're diving into the world of punk with a classic song from none other than the legendary Ramones. Strap yourself in and get ready to rock as we explore the amazing track, "I Don't Want to Grow Up."

About I Don't Want to Grow Up

Released as the opening track on the Ramones' final album, this catchy tune is actually a cover of a song written by the incomparable Tom Waits. But why did the Ramones choose to cover this particular track? Well, the answer lies in the incredible connection between the song's lyrics and the punk lifestyle and ideals that the Ramones epitomize.

The Ramones were known for their raw, energetic sound, and "I Don't Want to Grow Up" fits perfectly into their sonic universe. The simple chord structure provides the perfect backdrop for their signature punk sound, allowing their distinctive style to shine through.

Interestingly, this wasn't the Ramones' only connection to Tom Waits. Johnny Ramone, the band's guitarist, also handpicked Waits' song "Return of Jack and Judy" for the tribute album "We're A Happy Family." This speaks volumes about the mutual respect and admiration between these two musical forces.

The cover art of the Ramones' final album emblazoned with their iconic logo

As a band, the Ramones had a unique ability to take existing songs and infuse them with their own punk rock energy and attitude. "I Don't Want to Grow Up" is a prime example of their talent for making a song their own while staying true to the original's essence.

So what exactly sets this song apart? Well, let's break it down. From the very first chords, the track grabs your attention and refuses to let go. The uptempo beat and catchy guitar riffs instantly make you want to jump up and start pogoing.

But it's the lyrics that truly make this song shine. With lines like "I don't wanna be no uptown fool," the Ramones perfectly capture the rebellious spirit of the punk movement. They embody the essence of refusing to conform to societal expectations and choosing to live life on one's own terms.

In many ways, "I Don't Want to Grow Up" is an anthem for the misfits, the outcasts, and the eternal rebels. It's a rallying cry for those who refuse to let go of their youthful spirit and embrace the conformity often associated with adulthood.

The Ramones bring their trademark style, unleashing their unruly energy on the song. Joey Ramone's distinctive vocals inject a sense of urgency and excitement, while Johnny's guitar work adds a razor-sharp edge to the music. Bassist Dee Dee Ramone and drummer Marky Ramone provide the thunderous rhythm section that drives the song forward with relentless power.

One cannot overlook the influence the Ramones had on the punk scene and music as a whole. With their self-titled debut album released in 1976, they pioneered a genre and became one of the most influential bands of all time. "I Don't Want to Grow Up" serves as a testament to their lasting impact on music history.

Even today, the Ramones' music continues to resonate with new generations, as their sound represents a rebellious spirit that transcends time. Songs like "I Don't Want to Grow Up" remind us to hold onto our youthful dreams and never lose sight of our true selves.

So, the next time life gets a little too serious and you start feeling weighed down by the pressures of adulthood, crank up the volume and let the Ramones remind you that it's okay to resist growing up. After all, who wants to be an uptown fool when you can be a punk rock rebel?

Remember, folks, never lose that spark that makes you who you are. Stay true to yourself, embrace your inner punk, and keep rocking!

Until next time, keep the music alive!

• Release Date: July 18, 1995
• Artist: Ramones