About The Song
The song “When I Was Young” by Eric Burdon & The Animals, released in 1967, is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of youth. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for a simpler time, while also acknowledging the inevitability of aging and the challenges that come with it.
The song’s introspective tone is set immediately with the opening lines, “When I was young, I used to think that life was so easy.” This sentiment is echoed throughout the song as Burdon reminisces about carefree days and youthful dreams. The lyrics also delve into the darker side of growing up, exploring themes of disillusionment, regret, and the loss of innocence.
Burdon’s powerful vocals convey a raw emotion that resonates deeply with listeners. His voice is both vulnerable and defiant, capturing the complexity of the song’s themes. The band’s backing music provides a soulful and melodic accompaniment, complementing Burdon’s vocals and enhancing the overall impact of the song.
“When I Was Young” has become a classic of its era, enduring the test of time and continuing to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its timeless message about the human experience and the bittersweet nature of life has solidified its place in the rock and roll pantheon.
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Lyrics
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My father was a soldier then
And times were very hard
When I was young
When I was youngI smoked my first cigarette at ten
And for girls, I had a bad yen
And I had quite a ball
When I was young
When I was young, it was more important
Pain more pain
But I laughed a much louder, yeah
When I was young
When I was young
I met my first love at thirteen
She was brown and I was pretty green
And I learned quite a lot when I was young
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young, it was more important
Pain more painful
Laughed a much louder, yeah
When I was young
When I was young
My faith was so much stronger then
I believed in fellow man
And I was so much older then
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young