Give a little love
Noah & The Whale/Noah and the Whale Lyrics

Oh well the world never seemed bigger
Reflecting on life as a young adult, the world felt small and full of potential.

Than the summer of '98
Specifically referring to the summer of 1998, a time when the singer was likely a young teenager.

Living out in the suburbs
Raised in a middle-class neighborhood, far away from the excitement of the city.

Planning my escape
Dreaming of a future where the artist could break away from their quiet suburban life.

I grew my hair to my shoulders
A small rebellion against societal norms, expressed through long hair.

Formed a band with a couple of friends
A common bonding experience among young adolescents, trying to find their identity through music.

And we called ourselves The Devils Playhouse
Choosing a name that reflected the group's rebellious nature and love for rock and roll music.

Influences like Bruce and the band
The group found inspiration in classic rock musicians, including Bruce Springsteen and his band.

And we'd sing and play
Describing the act of performing and creating music.

Simple three chord rock and roll
Choosing a straightforward style of music that was easy to play and enjoyable for both the band and audience.

And miles away
Referring to the physical distance between the band and other teenagers who were not interested in rock music.

The other kids would just grow old
Implying that those who did not share the band's passion for rock were more interested in following a traditional path in life and conforming to societal norms.

But we're making our own way out
Expressing the band's desire to escape the norm and follow their own path, regardless of what others thought.

Well we'd practice every week in my bedroom
Working hard to improve their skills and create new music, even if it meant practicing in a small space.

While my parents were working in town
Taking advantage of their parents' absence to play music as loud as they wanted and practice for long periods of time without interruption.

And one morning in our school assembly
A pivotal moment that changed the band's fortunes, when they were given the opportunity to perform in front of their peers.

Played a cover of "Don't Let Me Down"
Choosing a popular song that the audience would recognize and enjoy, while also putting their own spin on it.

The performance was nervous and awkward
Describing the band's initial hesitation and fear of performing on stage.

But the passion was real and profound
Despite being nervous, the band's love of music shone through and made a real impact on the audience.

And the kids in the audience laughing
Some members of the audience may have initially laughed or mocked the band, but this did not deter the group from performing with passion and determination.

While the band just looked at the ground
The band members may have felt embarrassed or ashamed, but they remained focused on their music and determined not to be discouraged by their performance.

But the victory
Despite initial setbacks and fear of failure, the band saw this performance as a victory and an important step forward in their musical journey.

For the kids who believe in rock and roll
Positively portraying those who have a passion for rock and roll music and who are willing to take risks to pursue their dreams.

I know for me
Reflecting personally on the impact that this experience had on the artist.

That performance lives, it never grows old
A powerful memory that the singer will never forget, even as they grow older.

Well I'd give it all back just to do it again
Expressing a desire to relive that moment of musical victory and shared passion with the band and audience.

Turn back time, be with my friends
The singer wishes to go back in time and recapture the joy and excitement of that moment with their close friends and bandmates.

Tonight
The song ends with a word that implies an intention to take action, to create new memories and moments of shared passion and triumph.