Oslo-born artist JOA captures the highs and lows of youth in Golden Years, a track that shifts from quiet introspection to a soaring, cinematic release.
Soft piano chords and wistful vocals set the tone, carrying a sense of longing that lingers through the first verse.
The build is subtle—steady drums kick in, layering a quiet urgency beneath the weight of nostalgia.
By the time the song reaches its peak, it breaks free into something bolder, almost euphoric, yet still laced with the ache of growing up too fast.
JOA’s lyrics paint a picture of teenage disillusionment, balancing moments of frustration with an underlying hope.
Lines like “Dry your teenage tears, these are the golden years” turn bittersweet reflection into something anthemic, a reminder that even in uncertainty, time keeps moving forward.
As the track builds, its emotional core remains unshaken—JOA leans into vulnerability without losing sight of resilience.
“This was the first song I wrote for this project, marking the beginning of my journey to understand what I wanted to express through my music and why I wanted to create an EP,” JOA shared on social media. “This song is for anyone who feels left out, lonely, or frustrated growing up. I want you to know you’re not alone, and no matter how tough things feel, time will heal and things will get better.”
The song carries the kind of weight that would fit effortlessly into a coming-of-age film capturing the restlessness of youth in a way that feels both deeply personal and universally understood.
Listen to Golden Years now.
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JOA Golden Years Lyrics
I think the rumors says it all
I think it’s right
The light at the end of the tunnel
Is not that bright
So set it on fire
Burn it down all in regret
Cause we don’t care how fast we fall
Set it on fire
You told me to not be afraid
Today’s what we’re living for
Dry your teenage tears
These are the golden years
Pretend like it disappear
It won’t matter anyway
The old people live while the young one’s we die
Is this supposed to be the time of our lives
So dry your teenage tears
These are the golden years
No wrong turnes to take
Mistakes to make
I see you got a teardrop running down your face
So set it on fire
Burn it down all and regret
Cause we don’t care how fast we fall
Set it on fire
You told me to not be afraid
Today’s what we’re living for
Dry your teenage tears
These are the golden years
Pretend like it disappears
It Wont matter anyway
The old people live while the young one’s we die
Is this supposed to be the time of our lives
So dry your teenage tears
These are the golden years
Oh oh oh ah
Oh oh oh ah
Oh oh oh ah
These are the golden years
Oh oh oh ah
Oh oh oh ah
Oh oh oh ah
Golden years
Dry your teenage tears
These are the golden years
Pretend like it disappears
It Wont matter anyway