This famous account of a young man's depressing summer -- originally from Eddie Cochran, then covered by classic rockers such as Blue Cheer and The Who -- seems pretty upbeat on the surface.

But if you read the lyrics literally, you'll realize that the song's young protagonist is actually kinda screwed. His was too sick to work at his job -- which pays next-to-nothing anyway -- so now he can't borrow his dad's car and take his girl out. He decides to take his problems to the United Nations (where he somehow finds a Senator) only to be refused assistance because after all, why help a kid who can't vote for you? It's like he said, there ain't no cure for the summertime blues...

 

 

Hear The Who Perform 'Summertime Blues'

More From Ultimate Classic Rock