In 1976, Hell either was kicked out of the Heartbreakers or quit the group, depending on whom you believe, and was replaced by Billy Rath, who, according to legend, was a gigolo. Hell went on to form his own band, The Voidoids.
Arriving for a European tour just as the UK punk scene was building momentum, the Heartbreakers developed a following playing in and around London. The band's members and image were widely associated with drug use, specifically, heroin. The Sex Pistols invited them to open for them on the ill-fated Anarchy Tour. They shortly signed with Track Records. Their debut--and only--studio album, L.A.M.F., featured all the Heartbreakers' popular live songs. The release of the album put a huge strain on the band, because of anger among some band members over the poor quality of the mix. Several of the members of the band left at this point. The band reformed in 1979 for a few farewell shows at Max’s Kansas City with drummer Ty Stix sitting in for Nolan. The resulting live album Live at Max's Kansas City '79 is considered a punk classic. The Heartbreakers' song, London Boys, is a swipe at the Sex Pistols, in response to the Pistols' New York, a put-down of the New York Dolls.
The band re-formed occasionally to play at New York clubs until the death of Johnny Thunders in 1991. Jerry Nolan died a few months later, in 1992. Live shows often consisted of songs performed with the New York Dolls or taken from Johnny Thunders' solo career. Richard Hell rarely plays music live, concentrating instead on writing and spoken-word performances. Billy Rath's whereabouts are currently unknown, leading to various rumors such as that he died or became a priest. Walter Lure still performs about once a month with his band the Waldos, performing mostly Heartbreakers songs
I Wanne Be Loved
The Heartbreakers Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
To what I wanna say
I'm so crazy 'bout you
I don't wanna play
I wanna be loved
Be loved by you
I wanna be loved
You can't change my mind
You can't change the times
You can do what you want
You better read between the lines
I wanna be loved
Be loved by you
I wanna be loved
Be loved by you
You clawled your way to the top
I don't care if you're a flop
I'll do what I gotta do
To take care of you
The Heartbreakers' song "I Wanna Be Loved" is a classic example of their punk-influenced rock and roll sound. The lyrics express a longing for love and an unwillingness to play games in relationships. The opening lines set the tone for the song, as the singer implores his lover to listen to his words. He declares his devotion, stating that he is "crazy 'bout you" and doesn't want to play games.
The chorus repeats the phrase "I wanna be loved, be loved by you" twice, emphasizing the singer's desire for love and companionship. The second verse takes a slightly more confrontational tone, with the singer declaring that his mind and the times cannot be changed. He also warns his lover to "read between the lines," suggesting that there may be hidden meanings or motives behind his words.
Overall, the lyrics to "I Wanna Be Loved" express a passionate desire for love and commitment, with a touch of defiance and rebelliousness. The Heartbreakers' raw and energetic musical style complements the lyrics, creating a powerful and memorable rock song.
Line by Line Meaning
Well won't you listen baby
I respectfully request your undivided attention
To what I wanna say
To the message that I'm about to convey
I'm so crazy 'bout you
I am deeply infatuated with you
I don't wanna play
I am not interested in engaging in games or manipulation
I wanna be loved
I desire to be shown love and affection
Be loved by you
Specifically, I desire to experience love and affection from you
You can't change my mind
It is not possible for you to alter my beliefs or opinions
You can't change the times
The circumstances and context surrounding our relationship are unalterable
You can do what you want
You are free to act in any manner you choose
You better read between the lines
It is imperative that you understand the underlying meaning or intent behind my words
You clawled your way to the top
You achieved success through a ruthless and cutthroat approach
I don't care if you're a flop
Regardless of your level of success or failure, my feelings for you remain unaffected
I'll do what I gotta do
I am willing to take whatever action is necessary
To take care of you
In order to provide for and support you
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: J. THUNDERS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
bagoflaughs
I once got a speeding ticket with this song playing in my car. Yeah, blame it on Johnny. Song still rules.
Jeffery Boyle
Priceless 🎸
lendogglc
One of the most badass songs ever! This song kicks ass!
M.C. Too Tall
One of the few regrets in life I have is never meeting this great man.
duncdee99
Favorite punk rock record of all time, hands down.
dj
Johnny and them are epic, and Jerry is one of the best drummers!
Axel Torres
rock n roll, just shoves the message down ur trout. love johnny(:
Derek Moody
RIP Walter. Thanx 4 the rock n roll brother. Tell Johnny and the guys hello.
Gianfranco Romero
Real Punk Rock sounds like the original Rock N' Roll.
Felipe32956
Damn, fucking good song ! --: /