The Meaning Behind The Song: I Missed Again by Phil Collins
Phil Collins’ I Missed Again has been a classic tune since it came out in 1981. The song was written by Phil Collins, and it is one of the standout tracks on his debut solo album, Face Value.
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The song has a catchy sound and an emotional depth, showcased by Collins’ soulful delivery. Over the years, many fans have wondered about the meaning behind the song. In this article, we will discuss the essence of I Missed Again, including its lyrics, music, and the artist’s inspiration.
The Lyrics Of I Missed Again
The lyrics of I Missed Again are relatively simple but emotionally profound. The song is primarily about a man who’s struggling to win back the heart of his love interest. It’s an intense expression of heartbreak, hopelessness, and regret.
The opening lines of the song set the tone as Collins sings, “She’s gone out of my life, I was wrong, I’m to blame.”
Collins goes on to recount how he’s thrown away his relationship with his beloved, and he’s now living with the consequences. He sings:
“I missed again, I missed again, oh-oh, I missed again, I missed again.
But I think it’s gonna be alright.”
Collins’ optimism is hopeful yet slightly tinged with desperation as he tries to convince himself that things will turn out okay. The chorus repeats, “I missed again,” and it embodies the feelings of defeat, disappointment, and self-blame.
The Music Of I Missed Again
The music of I Missed Again is typical of Phil Collins’ style at the time. It features a prominent drum rhythm, synthesizers, and horn arrangements that blend together to create a driving, upbeat sound that belies the song’s melancholic lyrics.
The song is notable for its innovative use of the Roland CR-78 drum machine, which Collins blended with live drums to create a unique rhythmic texture.
According to Collins, the drum machine’s sound was the inspiration for the song, and he built the melody and lyrics around it. He said in an interview, “It all came from that Roland CR-78, which had a very tight, compressed, and fat sound. And it was the starting place of the song, I built on that.”
The Inspiration Behind I Missed Again
Phil Collins has said that the inspiration for I Missed Again came from reflecting on his failed relationships. At the time, Collins was going through a divorce, and that experience undoubtedly influenced the song’s emotional depth.
Collins spoke about the inspiration behind the song, saying, “I Missed Again is quite a personal song. It’s about living with the consequences of a failed relationship, looking back and being angry with yourself for not having done things differently.”
It’s easy to see how this song’s highly personal nature has allowed it to resonate with listeners across generations.
The Legacy Of I Missed Again
I Missed Again is one of Phil Collins’ most enduring songs and has continued to capture the hearts of listeners worldwide for over 40 years. The song has remained a fixture on classic rock radio and is regularly performed during Collins’ live shows.
Moreover, the song has been covered many times over the years, including by artists like Maroon 5, Arctic Monkeys, and Tori Amos, among others.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to I Missed Again
What’s the meaning of the song?
The song is about the regret of losing a loved one. It portrays the feeling of acknowledging one’s fault while trying to win back a partner’s love. It’s a poignant reminder of the power of love and the often-painful nature of relationships.
What inspired Phil Collins to write the song?
The song was inspired by Collins’ experience going through a divorce. Collins reflected on his past mistakes and the relationships he’d lost, which culminated in the creation of this deeply personal and emotionally charged track.
What’s with the drum sound?
The song’s distinctive drum sound came from Phil Collins’ innovative use of the Roland CR-78 drum machine. He blended it with live drums and other instruments to create a unique and memorable sound.
Has anyone ever covered the song?
Yes, the song has been covered many times. Artists like Maroon 5, Arctic Monkeys, and Tori Amos have all put their spin on this classic track over the years.
What does the line “But I think it’s gonna be alright” mean?
This line is an expression of the protagonist’s desire to believe that everything is going to work out fine. Collins wants to be optimistic and hopeful about his chances with his lost love, but he’s also aware that his situation is far from ideal.
What other songs were on the same album?
I Missed Again was part of Phil Collins’ debut solo album, Face Value. Other standout tracks from the record include In The Air Tonight, If Leaving Me Is Easy, and This Must Be Love.
What’s the legacy of the song?
I Missed Again is one of Phil Collins’ most beloved tracks and one of the standout songs from the ’80s. The song continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, thanks to its catchy sound, emotionally charged lyrics, and timeless appeal.
What was the reception to the song when it was released?
The song was released as Face Value’s lead single and met with considerable critical acclaim. The single reached #14 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and #19 in the UK charts, cementing Phil Collins’ status as a solo artist.
What other famous songs did Phil Collins write?
Phil Collins is an accomplished songwriter who’s written many famous songs over his career, including hits like In The Air Tonight, Another Day In Paradise, Sussudio, and Against All Odds.
Did Phil Collins write any other songs about relationships?
Yes, Phil Collins has written many songs about relationships throughout his career. Other notable tracks include Groovy Kind of Love, One More Night, and Against All Odds.
What’s the main message of the I Missed Again’s video?
The music video for I Missed Again features Phil Collins performing the song in a brightly lit, white room with other musicians. The video conveys a sense of energy and optimism, contrasting with the song’s more melancholic themes.
What’s the essence of the song’s lyrics and music blended?
The song’s lyrics and music blend together to create a moving portrait of heartbreak and regret. The bright, upbeat melody counterbalances the lyrics’ sorrow and despair, resulting in a song that’s emotionally nuanced and ultimately uplifting.
