The lyrics describe a lively party scene at a crowded island in the Gulf of Mexico called the Balinese, where people can dance all night, drink whiskey, and throw dice. The narrator reminisces about a woman named Ruby who always dressed in red and was a skilled dancer at the Balinese.

Meaning of "Balinese" by ZZ Top

The song "Balinese" by ZZ Top evokes nostalgia for a time and place where fun and excitement were abundant. The Balinese represents a carefree escape from reality, where people could let loose and enjoy themselves without inhibition. The mention of Ruby, a woman who stands out in the narrator's memory, symbolizes the vibrant and memorable characters that populate such a lively environment. The repetition of "everybody knows it was hard to leave" creates a sense of longing and attachment to the Balinese, highlighting the bittersweet feeling of nostalgia for a place that no longer exists. Overall, the lyrics capture the essence of a bygone era filled with wild nights and unforgettable experiences.