Bad Boys
The Coppers Lyrics


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Bad boys, whatcha want
Watcha want, whatcha gonna do?
When sheriff John Brown come for you
Tell me whatcha wanna do, whatcha gonna do?
Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do?
Whatcha gonna do when they come for you?
Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do?
Whatcha gonna do when they come for you?
When you were eight and you had bad traits
You go to school and learn the golden rule
So why are you acting like a bloody fool?
If you get hot, you must get cool
Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do?
Whatcha gonna do when they come for you?




Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do?
Whatcha gonna do when they come for you?

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to The Coppers' song "Bad Boys" present an interesting commentary on criminality and justice. The chorus, with its repeated question "Whatcha gonna do when they come for you?" seems to suggest that the "bad boys" in question are caught in a cycle of criminal behavior from which there may be no escape. The reference to "sheriff John Brown" as the one coming for them gives the sense of a law enforcement figure who is relentless in his pursuit of justice.


The first verse adds an additional layer of complexity, suggesting that these "bad boys" were once innocent children who were taught the "golden rule." The shift from innocence to criminality is a theme often explored in stories and songs like this one, and reinforces the idea that there is some deeper issue at play here that goes beyond simply a lack of moral character.


Overall, the lyrics to "Bad Boys" challenge the listener to consider what leads people to become "bad," and whether there is any hope for redemption once one has entered into a life of crime.


Line by Line Meaning

Bad boys, whatcha want
What is it that you, bad boys, desire?


Watcha want, whatcha gonna do?
What do you intend to do with what you want?


When sheriff John Brown come for you
When the law enforcement officer named Sheriff John Brown comes to apprehend you


Tell me whatcha wanna do, whatcha gonna do?
Inform me of your intentions and actions in response to Sheriff John Brown's arrival


Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do?
Hey, bad boys, what are your plans?


Whatcha gonna do when they come for you?
What are you going to do when the authorities come to take you away?


When you were eight and you had bad traits
When you were a child, and you exhibited negative behaviors


You go to school and learn the golden rule
You were taught to follow the principle of treating others as you would like to be treated


So why are you acting like a bloody fool?
Given your upbringing, why are you behaving in a foolish and reckless manner?


If you get hot, you must get cool
If and when you become angry, you need to calm down and exercise self-control


Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do?
Once more, bad boys, what is your plan?


Whatcha gonna do when they come for you?
How do you intend to handle the situation when the authorities apprehend you?




Contributed by Gianna P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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