Bastille – “Bad Blood” Lyrics Meaning

“Bad Blood” by Bastille delves into the complexities of friendships and the lasting impact of unresolved conflicts. The song is about the aftermath of a falling-out between friends, highlighting the resentment and bitterness that can linger. The songwriter’s message is clear: it’s time to move on from the past and let go of the “bad blood” that’s been plaguing. The song isn’t about a specific person but rather a reflection on the dynamics of broken friendships and the importance of leaving the past behind.

Eager for more insights? Let’s break down the lyrics together.


“Bad Blood” Lyrics Meaning

“We were young and drinking in the park, there was nowhere else to go.” The song kicks off with a nostalgic look back at carefree days spent with friends. It sets the scene for the exploration of a once-close relationship. “And you said you always had my back, oh, but how were we to know?” These lines suggest trust and loyalty within the friendship. However, the songwriter hints at the unforeseen consequences of such promises.

“That these are the days that bind you together, forever, and these little things define you forever, forever.” Here, the lyrics emphasize the enduring impact of shared experiences and small gestures within a friendship. These are the bonds that stay with us. “All this bad blood here, won’t you let it dry? It’s been cold for years, won’t you let it lie?” The heart of the song lies in these lines. They convey a plea to release the lingering resentment and bitterness that has festered over time. It’s a call for closure and moving forward.

“I don’t want to hear about the bad blood anymore, I don’t wanna hear you talk about it anymore, oh.” The repeated refrain echoes the songwriter’s strong desire to put the past behind, urging the other party to do the same.

The Story Behind “Bad Blood”

Bastille, known for their genre-blending music, often explores themes of relationships, nostalgia, and self-reflection in their songs. When “Bad Blood” was penned, Dan Smith was likely introspective, reflecting on the dynamics of friendships. The song encapsulates the aftermath of a falling out, a common experience for many. It’s during these moments of conflict and confusion that we often question the true nature of our connections.

The song may have emerged from a personal experience or observation. Dan Smith, as the band’s lead vocalist and songwriter, has a knack for weaving personal emotions into his lyrics. The lyrics’ rawness and honesty suggest that he might have been grappling with his own feelings of bitterness and resentment.

“Bad Blood” carries a universal message of letting go of grudges and moving forward. It reflects the maturity that comes with recognizing the toxicity of holding onto past conflicts. The desire for closure and the longing to leave the “bad blood” behind are sentiments that many can relate to.

In summary, “Bad Blood” is a reflection on the lasting impact of unresolved conflicts within friendships. Bastille’s lyrics convey a message of the need to let go of bitterness and resentment to move forward. While the song isn’t about a specific person, it serves as a reminder of the importance of closure and leaving behind the “bad blood” that can poison relationships.