I fought the law
The crickets ft. Albert Lee & Brian May Lyrics


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A-breakin' rocks in the hot sun
I fought the law and the law won
I fought the law and the law won

I miss my baby and a good fun
I fought the law and the law won
I fought the law and the law won
I left my baby and I feel so bad
Guess my race is run
She's the best girl that I've ever had
I fought the law and the law won
I fought the law and the law won

A-robbin' people with the zip gun
I fought the law and the law won
I fought the law and the law won

I needed money 'cause I had none
I fought the law and the law won
I fought the law and the law won

I left my baby and I feel so bad
Guess my race is run
She's the best girl that I've ever had




I fought the law and the law won
I fought the law and the law won

Overall Meaning

"I Fought the Law" is a song by The Crickets which tells the story of a man who has broken the law and is now paying for his actions. The first verse describes the physical labor the man has been doing as a punishment for his crime. He fought against the law, but ultimately lost. Despite this, he continues to reminisce about his girlfriend, whom he misses dearly, and the good times they had together. The second verse reveals the man's crime of using a zip gun to rob people in order to get money. Again, he fought against the law, but this time he is resigned to his fate, as he knows his race is run.


The lyrics convey a sense of rebellion and defiance, but also the consequences of breaking the law. The repetition of "I fought the law and the law won" reinforces the idea that the man's actions had consequences that he couldn't escape. The lyric "She's the best girl that I've ever had" suggests that the man has lost not only his freedom, but also his relationship.


The song's catchy melody and upbeat rhythm contrast with its dark lyrics, creating a memorable and powerful combination. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years and continues to be a popular song.


Line by Line Meaning

A-breakin' rocks in the hot sun
I was forced to perform hard labor in the sun.


I fought the law and the law won
I engaged in illegal activities and the authorities caught me.


I miss my baby and a good fun
I long for my partner and joyful activities.


I left my baby and I feel so bad
I abandoned my significant other and feel regretful.


Guess my race is run
I have come to the end of my journey or lifespan.


She's the best girl that I've ever had
My partner is the most wonderful woman I have ever been with.


A-robbin' people with the zip gun
I committed the illegal act of robbing others using a specific type of gun.


I needed money 'cause I had none
I required funds due to a lack of financial resources.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Sonny Curtis

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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