About The Song
“The Outsiders” was an American rock band from Cleveland, Ohio, known for their hit single “Time Won’t Let Me.” Recorded in September 1965, the song peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in April 1966. Released by Capitol Records in January 1966, it reached the top 5 in both the US and Canada. Despite their success with this song, “The Outsiders” disbanded in the late 1960s. The song is revered as a classic garage rock track and is still celebrated today, exemplifying the band’s enduring influence in the genre.
The song “Time Won’t Let Me” by The Outsiders explores themes of longing, struggle, and the passage of time. While rooted in romantic experiences, the song’s message is universal, urging listeners to accept their circumstances and forge ahead. The song captures the essence of youthful love and the uncertainty of life, resonating with audiences through its emotional depth and energetic sound. The lyrics could symbolize the fear of wasting time on an uncertain relationship or the inevitability of time passing, represented by the ticking clock of life.
Lyrics
I can't wait forever
Even though you want me to
I can't wait forever
To know if you'll be true
Time won't let me. (Oh no.)
Time won't let me. (Oh no.)
Time won't let me-e-e-e wait that long
Can't you see I've waited too long
To love you, to hold you in my arms
Time won't let me. (Oh no.)
Time won't let me. (Oh no.)
Time won't let me-e-e-e. Wow!
(Guitar solo)
Ahhh, ahhh, ahhh, ahhh
I can't wait forever
Even though you want me to
I can't wait forever
To know if you'll be true
Time won't let me. (Oh no.)
Time won't let me. (Oh no.)
Time won't let me-e-e-e wait that long
It won't let me wait that long
(Wait, wait, wait, wait. Wait that long.)
Hear me, baby, baby, man, too long
(Wait, wait, wait, wait. Wait that long.)
Take me back, I'm coming back right now
(Wait, wait, wait, wait. Wait that long.)
Hear me, baby, said I'm coming home, I'm coming home
(Wait, wait, wait, wait. Wait that long.)
A-hear me talking, pretty baby
Don't you know I'm coming back. Wow!
(Wait, wait, wait, wait. Wait that long.)
Oh, pretty baby, take me back. I'm coming back
(Wait, wait, wait, wait. Wait that long.)
Open up your arms and take me back
A-here I come. Wow! (Wait, wait, wait, wait. Wait that long.)