About the song
Faron Young – Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young
Introduction
In the realm of country music, there are few names as revered as Faron Young. With his rich, baritone voice and heartfelt delivery, Young captured the essence of the American experience, weaving tales of love, loss, and the struggles of everyday life. Among his many enduring classics, “Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young” stands out as a poignant and powerful anthem for those who embrace life with passion and intensity.
Released in 1958, “Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young” became an instant sensation, propelling Young to stardom and cementing his status as a country music icon. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message, a celebration of living life to the fullest, even in the face of uncertainty and the inevitability of death.
A Song of Passion and Regret
The opening lines of “Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young” set the stage for a journey through the highs and lows of life:
**”Some folks like to get their kicks from ridin’ through the breeze
Others find it in a bottle, some in lovin’ please
But I’ve found it all in livin’ fast, lovin’ hard, dyin’ young”
Young’s narrator embraces a life of passion and intensity, seeking fulfillment in experiences rather than material possessions. He revels in the thrill of the moment, unafraid to take risks and push boundaries. Yet, there’s an undercurrent of regret that runs through the song, a recognition that this fast-paced lifestyle comes with a price.
The Inevitability of Death
The chorus of “Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young” is a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life:
**”Oh, I’ve lived a life that’s full of madness, I’ve lived a life of sin
I’ve lived a life of glory, now I’m ready to begin
My last ride, I’m goin’ out in style, boys, watch me ride
Live fast, love hard, die young, c’mon boys, let’s ride”
Young’s narrator faces the inevitability of death with a defiant spirit, refusing to let fear or regret hold him back. He’s determined to live his life on his own terms, even if it means burning out rather than fading away.
A Legacy of Inspiration
“Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young” has resonated with generations of listeners, inspiring them to embrace life with passion and authenticity. Young’s message is not one of recklessness or disregard for consequences, but rather a call to live each moment to the fullest, to savor the joys and experiences that life has to offer.
Despite its somber undertones, “Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young” is ultimately a song of hope and affirmation. It celebrates the human spirit’s ability to find meaning and fulfillment in the face of adversity and mortality. Faron Young’s legacy lives on in this timeless classic, a reminder that life is precious and meant to be lived with passion and intensity.
Video
Lyrics
[Intro]
I wanna live fast, love hard, die young
And leave a beautiful memory
[Verse 1]
I wanna live fast, love hard, die young
And leave a beautiful memory
Don’t want slow walkin’ or sad singin’
Let ’em have a jubilee
[Chorus]
I wanna leave a lot of happy women
Thinking pretty thoughts of me
I wanna live fast, love hard, die young
And leave a beautiful memory
[Bridge]
I got a hot-rod car and a cowboy suit
And I really do get around
I got a little black book and the gals look cute
And I know the name of every spot in town
[Chorus]
I wanna find ’em, fool ’em, leave ’em
And let ’em do the same to me
I wanna live fast, love hard, die young
And leave a beautiful memory
[Instrumental Break]
[Verse 2]
I wanna live fast, love hard, die young
And leave a beautiful memory
I’m a Wampus cat, let me grab my hat
And baby, come along with me
[Chorus]
We’re gonna do some fancy stepping
We’re really goin’ on a spree
I wanna live fast, love hard, die young
And leave a beautiful memory
[Bridge]
Now you may not approve of the things I do
But it really don’t bother me
But don’t ever think you can tie me down
I’m gonna stay footloose and fancy free
[Chorus]
So jump back, make tracks, move out
And let the pretty gals at me
I wanna live fast, love hard, die young
And leave a beautiful memory