Growing up the hard way
We’re growing up the hard way
She’s got a blue tattoo on the back of her hand
that says “I love you” from the boys in the band
She’s been living on the run for almost a year
Her daddy would abuse her, she’s been living in fear
She’s got a diamond in her teeth and a leather beret
She knows every city street from New York to LA
She’s got little girl eyes
And her heart’s made of stone
I guess you gotta grow up fast
When you’re out on your own
Try to hold your head up high
You live and then you die
Can someone tell me why
Growing up the hard way
Learning how to live with the pain
The weight of the world on your shoulders
I guess that’s just the price that you pay
Growing up the hard way
It’s getting harder every day
Lying in a bed made of fire
Praying to God for some rain
Growing up the hard way
He was the pride and joy of his family
He always was the good boy they told him he’d be
But no one knew the anger that was building up inside
He was drinking from the bottle
That his old man used to hide
He stole a rented car off of Route 35
And when he gunned it I heard him scream
“Straight to hell I’m gonna drive!”
Then the cops came out of nowhere
And that truck got in his way
I’m sorry, Mrs. Johnson, that it had to end this way
Try to hold your head up high
You live and then you die
Can someone tell me why
Growing up the hard way
Learning how to live with the pain
The weight of the world on your shoulders
I guess that’s just the price that you pay
Growing up the hard way
It’s getting harder every day
Lying in a bed made of fire
Praying to God for some rain
Growing up the hard way, growing up the hard way
Growing up the hard way, growing up the hard way
Try to hold your head up high
Growing up the hard way
Learning how to live with the pain
The weight of the world on your shoulders
I guess that’s just the price that you pay
Growing up the hard way
It’s getting harder every day
Lying in a bed made of fire
Praying to God for some rain
Growing up the hard way, growing up the hard way
Growing up the hard way
Growing up the hard way, growing up the hard way
Facing Life’s Challenges: A Story of Survival
“Growin’ Up The Hard Way” by Bon Jovi is a gripping narrative that delves into the struggles of youth forced to mature too quickly. The song paints vivid portraits of young people battling abuse, neglect, and the heavy burdens life places on their shoulders. Through evocative imagery—from a girl with a blue tattoo to a boy spiraling out of control—the lyrics capture the pain and resilience that come from surviving hardship. The recurring refrain underscores the relentless reality of pain and the hope for relief, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the world’s weight pressing down on them.
Song Credits
- Artist: Bon Jovi
- Songwriters: Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora
- Release Year: 1985
- Label: Mercury Records