When is it appropriate to give someone a "bang on the ear"?

In the Waterboys song “Bang on the Ear” the singer reminisces about past loves. After each reminiscence he sings (about that particular ex)

And I send her my love, with a bang on the ear.”

He uses the phrase “a bang on the ear” in such a way that it seems like we, the listeners, are supposed to be familiar with this phrase as a common expression.

Is this an expression that exists independent of this song? Or is the phrase original to the song?

It seems to be an expression of affection, but what does it mean specifically? When would it be appropriate to use it?
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I always took that as a smack in the head?

Checking however with the Waterboys site (ftr, absoutly not waterboys.com, but http://www.mikescottwaterboys.com) and he says it’s a term of affection. Never heard it used outside the song however.

Damn that signature thing is annoying :frowning: