‘American Girl’ – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Tom Petty’s “American Girl” is a beloved song that blends 1960s guitars with 1970s punk influences. Some thought it was about a girl who jumped off a tower at the University of Florida, but Petty said that’s just a myth.

In reality, the song was inspired by his time in California, where he lived near a freeway. The sound of cars passing by reminded him of ocean waves, making it his “Malibu.” So, the song is about the calming effect of those passing cars, not a tragic event in Florida.

‘Every Breath You Take’ – The Police

The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” was one of the most successful singles of the ’80s, and has been the first dance at probably hundreds of weddings since then. However, the track isn’t a love song at all. Rather, the lyrics depict a dark story of obsession and stalking.

Sting has said of the song, “One couple told me, ‘Oh, we love that song; it was the main song played at our wedding!’ I thought, ‘Well, good luck.’” He’s also said, “I think the song is very, very sinister and ugly, and people have actually misinterpreted it as being a gentle little love song, when it’s quite the opposite.”

‘Blackbird’ – The Beatles

“Blackbird” has been one of the most heavily debated songs in The Beatles’ legendary catalogue. Primarily written by Paul McCartney, on the surface the song sounds like a typical love song.

However, according to McCartney at various points over the years, the song’s lyrics are actually a reference to the Civil Rights Movement, which was happening in the United States at the time.

‘Semi-Charmed Life’ – Third Eye Blind

Third Eye Blind’s 1997 hit song is known for its catchy pop melody, but it carries a darker message. Lead singer Stephan Jenkins revealed it’s about addiction, particularly a period when many of his friends were caught up in using drugs like speed.

He described the song as having a bright and shiny surface, but underneath, it delves into the messy, gripping, and destructive aspects of addiction. The music’s intention was not just to sound cheerful but to capture the complexity of the subject.

‘Born in the U.S.A.’ – Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” is famous but often misunderstood. Despite its energetic music, the lyrics reveal a Vietnam War veteran’s struggles and emotional scars.

Many wrongly thought it was a patriotic anthem due to its powerful “Born in the U.S.A.” chorus. Springsteen, unhappy that it was used by President Reagan, tried to explain its true meaning in interviews and even performed a quieter version to set the record straight.

‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’ – Bonnie Tyler

“Total Eclipse of the Heart” is a famous power ballad by Bonnie Tyler. What many people don’t know is that it was originally a love song for vampires. The song was written by producer Jim Steinman after Bonnie Tyler rejected his first two song ideas.

He remembered a song he’d started for a musical about vampires and tweaked it, creating one of the greatest love ballads ever. You can still hear hints of its vampire origins in the lyrics.

‘Love Song’ – Sara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles’ hit song “Love Song” is well-known from lobbies to radios. Surprisingly, it’s not a typical love song. Sara wrote it out of frustration when her record label didn’t like her songs.

The song is her way of saying, “This is me, take it or leave it,” to her label. Fortunately, they chose to take it, and it became a huge success. It’s a tale of standing up for oneself and being true to your art.