You Can't Put Your Arms Around a Memory

New York Dolls

About You Can't Put Your Arms Around a Memory

"You Can't Put Your Arms Around a Memory" is a song released in 1978 by Johnny Thunders. The title was taken from a line in the "Better Living Through TV" episode of the sitcom The Honeymooners. It is considered by many to be his signature song. The ballad has been interpreted to be about Thunders' heroin addiction, and about his romance with Sable Starr. However, according to Nina Antonia's biography, Johnny Thunders... In Cold Blood, the song was written before he was even a member of the New York Dolls, and years before he ever tried heroin. Peter Perrett, from the English new wave band The Only Ones, supplied guitar and backing vocals. 


Year:
2004
5:52
17 
#1

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It doesn't pay to try
All the smart boys know why
It doesn't mean, I didn't try
I just never know, why

It isn't 'cause I'm all alone
Oh, baby, you're not home
And when I'm home
Big deal, I'm still alone

It's so restless, I am
Beat my head against a pole
Try to knock some sense, down 'side my bones
And even though it don't show
Those guys are so old

Can't put your arms around a memory
Can't put your arms around a memory
Can't put your arms around a memory
Don't try
Don't try

You're just a basket case
And you got no name
Could you live with me?
Go on and say
And even though it don't show
Those guys are so old
Can't put your arms around a memory

Can't put your arms around a memory
Can't put your arms around a memory
Can't put your arms around a memory
Don't try
Don't try

Johnny you're me
Yeah, you're memory
I want to put my arms around your memory
I can't try, I can't try...don't try

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New York Dolls

The New York Dolls is an American rock band, formed in New York in 1971. The band's protopunk sound prefigured much of what was to come in the punk rock era; their visual style influenced the look of many new wave and 1980s-era glam metal groups, and they began the local New York scene that later spawned the Ramones, Blondie, Television and Talking Heads. more »

2 fans

Written by: John Genzale

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Artist Development
"You Can't Put Your Arms Around a Memory" is a solo piece by Johnny Thunders, who was a prominent member of the proto-punk rock band New York Dolls. Thunders' song deviates from his usual aggressive punk style, showing a softer and more introspective side.
Song Message
The song essentially is about the agonizing pain of nostalgia and how it is impossible to physically embrace a memory.
Release Date
"You Can't Put Your Arms Around a Memory" was released in 1978 as part of Thunders' solo album "So Alone."
Album Success
The album "So Alone", where the song features, has been cited as Thunders' most compulsive and potent works, gaining critical acclaim for its striking honesty and rawness.
Tribute
The song was a dedication to Thunders' deceased girlfriend Anette, highlighting the depth of personal emotions in the lyrics.
Cover Versions
Various artists have covered "You Can't Put Your Arms Around a Memory," signifying its influence in rock music. Some notable covers include those by Guns N' Roses and Duff McKagan.
Emotional Impact
This song was high on dramatic and emotional content, and fans felt it captured the essence of loss and longing beautifully, making it one of the standout tracks in Thunders' solo career.
Song Title
The song title is derived from a line in the psychological drama film 'The Mind Snatchers'.
Genre
Although Johnny Thunders was mainly known as a punk rock artist, "You can't put your arms around a memory" is more like a classic rock ballad than a punk rock song.
Posthumous Recognition
Despite Thunders' tragic death due to drug abuse in the early ’90s, this song continues to be recognized as one of his finest works.

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