“It’s Been Awhile” by Staind is a raw and candid song about introspection, regret, and self-realization. It captures the essence of confronting one’s past mistakes, longing for a forgotten love, and battling inner demons. In a brave confession, the songwriter admits to his flaws and yearns for forgiveness from others and himself. The song is a journey of acknowledging past actions and the yearning to make things right.
Want a deeper peek into this soul-stirring song? The ride’s going to be an emotional one.
“It’s Been Awhile” Lyrics Meaning
From the get-go, repeating the phrase “And it’s been awhile” isn’t just a nod to time. It showcases distance – both in time and emotion – from certain events and people. The line “Since I could hold my head up high” blatantly admits shame or regret over past actions. The verse about seeing someone again and the reference to standing on one’s own feet provides insight into a lost relationship or connection that once provided strength. Evidently, this relationship was a beacon of hope and stability, “But all that shit seems to disappear when I’m with you”.
The chorus, with lines about forgotten memories and the consequences of one’s actions, centers on self-accountability. It’s a tough look in the mirror, admitting wrongs and their ripple effects. “Why must I feel this way?” is the heart’s cry, wanting liberation from this weight of regret and pain. “Just one more peaceful day” encapsulates the desire for relief, even if just for a fleeting moment.
The lyrics further delve into personal struggles, possibly addiction with “Since I could say that I wasn’t addicted”. Yet, the focus isn’t solely on personal failings. The song speaks of a deep love and longing too. “I can still remember just the way you taste” portrays an unforgettable intimate connection with someone. In the latter part, there’s an attempt to absolve others, especially a father figure, from blame, pointing out that the individual understands his own role in his troubles.
The song circles back, ending on a note of regret but with a touch of hope, indicating a wish to make amends. This cyclical pattern stresses the ongoing struggle between acceptance and the wish for redemption.
The Story Behind “It’s Been Awhile”
“It’s Been Awhile” is a confessional journal entry straight from the heart of Aaron Lewis, the lead vocalist and primary songwriter of Staind. Born out of a tumultuous time in Lewis’s life, the song conveys his struggles with substance abuse, personal failings, and the weight of regrets.
During the early 2000s, when this track was written, Staind was at a pivotal point in their career, with rising fame and the subsequent pressures that came with it. This fame, however alluring, often came with its set of challenges. The limelight can amplify personal issues, making them even more challenging to address privately.
Lewis, always known for wearing his heart on his sleeve, channeled his pain and introspection into this song. The lyrics don’t tiptoe around the issues. They’re direct, candid, and incredibly personal. Lewis opens up about the shaky ground he found himself on, constantly wrestling with his inner demons. The references to a lost love suggest that amidst these personal battles, there was also a relationship that bore the brunt of his struggles.
Yet, the song isn’t just about wallowing in regret. It’s about acknowledgment, acceptance, and the desire to move forward. “It’s Been Awhile” became a form of catharsis for Lewis, a way to confront and cope with his past. And for many fans, it served as a mirror to their own experiences, making it an anthem for anyone looking for redemption.