The Knack

Lyrics

2 ContributorsThe Hard Way LyricsBoys like you were born to waste
You never listen to what I say
And if you think you're here to mess around
You're making a big mistake

'Cos you're gonna find out the hard way
(You can take the hard way)
You can take the hard way
(You can take the hard way)

No matter what I do or say
You're much too dumb to educate
One day life's going to come around and
Slap you in the face

You can run back the hard way
(You can take the hard way)
You can take the hard way

Well, you do it your way
And I'll do it my way
We'll see who's the one to survive

Because with no foundation or qualifications
There's no way that you can get by
No, no way you can get by
You might also likeWhy don't you take the easy way?
Why don't you co-operate?
Don't just sit there and vegetate
You're winding up illiterate?
C'mon now

Hey, you think that life's a vacation, you've no inclination
To dust away the cobwebs of your mind
Now it's time for confrontation and I'm tired of being patient
So I've got to be cruel to be kind
Yes, I've got to be cruel to be kind

I'm wasting all my patience because you're too indiscreet
When you're only fit to sweep the streets
Your intellect is such, that it requires a killer's touch
So I'm going to play it your way, we'll take the hard way

Gonna take the hard way
You can take the hard way
Gonna take the hard way
You can take the hard way
C'mon nowEmbed

If there's one thing that can truly captivate and energize listeners, it's a rock anthem that hits all the right notes. And that's exactly what The Knack delivers with their iconic track "The Hard Way." Bursting onto the scene with their infectious blend of power pop, this song is a testament to the band's ability to create instant earworms. With its memorable hooks, driving rhythm, and relatable lyrics, "The Hard Way" is a musical journey that resonates with audiences even to this day.

About The Hard Way

"The Hard Way" is a track by the American rock band The Knack, known for their catchy melodies and dynamic performances. The song was included in their third studio album, "Round Trip," released in 1981. The Knack, consisting of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Doug Fieger, lead guitarist Berton Averre, bassist Prescott Niles, and drummer Bruce Gary, gained immense popularity with their breakout hit, "My Sharona," which topped the charts in 1979. "The Hard Way" showcases their signature sound and maintains the same level of energetic passion that captivated fans from the start.

From the moment the song bursts to life with its driving drumbeat, it's clear that "The Hard Way" means business. The steady rhythm and pulsating bassline provide a solid foundation for the electrifying guitar riffs that soar throughout the track. Berton Averre's guitar work shines in this song, showcasing his technical prowess and ability to create memorable hooks that stick with you long after the last note fades.

But it's not just the music that grabs your attention; it's the lyrics as well. "The Hard Way" explores the universal theme of learning life's lessons through the school of hard knocks. With lines like "I'm just a man, doing the best I can," the song captures the struggles and determination that many can relate to. The Knack's ability to infuse their songs with relatable and thought-provoking lyrics is one of the reasons their music stands the test of time.

Another aspect that contributes to the allure of "The Hard Way" is the infectious energy that permeates every second of the track. From the soaring chorus that invites listeners to sing along to the high-octane instrumentation that never lets up, the song demands attention and invites you to be part of the musical experience. It's the type of song that makes you want to turn up the volume, roll down the windows, and let the music take you on a wild ride.

With "The Hard Way," The Knack proves once again why they are considered one of the pioneers of power pop. The song showcases their ability to craft catchy melodies, deliver captivating performances, and capture the essence of the human experience in a way that resonates with a broad audience. From the driving rhythm to the infectious hooks and relatable lyrics, this track has all the elements that make it a timeless classic.

So, whether you're a long-time fan of The Knack or discovering their music for the first time, "The Hard Way" is a song that deserves a place on your playlist. Its power and energy are sure to invigorate your senses, leaving you wanting more. Brace yourself for a rock anthem that will pull you in from the first note, take you on a musical journey, and leave you breathless, craving the adrenaline rush that only great music can provide. Give in to the irresistible allure of "The Hard Way" and let the magic of The Knack wash over you.

• Release Date: February 15, 1980
• Artist: The Knack