The Meaning Behind The Song: Always by Killswitch Engage
Killswitch Engage is an American metalcore band formed in 1999. They have released eight studio albums, became one of the most successful bands in the genre, and gained a wide following with their hard-hitting, emotionally charged songs. One of their most popular hits is “Always,” from their fourth album, “As Daylight Dies,” released in 2006.
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The song’s lyrics are powerful and meaningful, touching on the themes of love, loss, and perseverance. The song has resonated with fans, making it a fan favorite that still gets significant airplay to this day. In this article, we will dive deep into the meaning behind the song “Always,” so that fans of Killswitch Engage can understand and appreciate its significance.
The lyrics of “Always”
Before we can examine the meaning behind “Always,” let’s take a closer look at the song’s lyrics:
“When darkness falls
May it be
That we should see the light
When reaper calls
May it be
That we walk straight and right”
“When doubt returns
May it be
That faith is your keeper
When we hear
The angels sing
May it be
That they welcome you”
Broadly speaking, the song is about staying strong in the face of adversity. It is about fighting against the odds, staying true to oneself, and persevering. But let’s take a closer look at the lyrics to see the deeper meaning behind the words.
When darkness falls…
The opening lyrics of the song read:
“When darkness falls
May it be
That we should see the light”
These lines could be interpreted in different ways, but the meaning behind them is that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope. Furthermore, when faced with a difficult situation, people should look for the light and a way forward. The song encourages fans to keep fighting and stay strong, even when things seem bleak.
When reaper calls…
The next verse of the song states:
“When reaper calls
May it be
That we walk straight and right”
The “reaper” being referred to is most likely a metaphor for death. The song suggests that when the time comes for someone to pass on, they should try to live their life as best they can. Specifically, they should try to walk “straight and right” or lead a moral and good life.
When doubt returns…
The song then goes on to say:
“When doubt returns
May it be
That faith is your keeper”
These lyrics are about dealing with self-doubt, which can be crippling to some people. The song suggests that during times of doubt, people should turn to their faith to find the strength to keep moving forward. These words offer solace to anyone who may be struggling with insecurities or self-doubt.
The angels sing…
The song concludes with:
“When we hear
The angels sing
May it be
That they welcome you”
These lyrics are a reference to the idea of paradise or heaven, and the belief that those who live good lives will be welcomed into the afterlife. It is a hopeful message that offers comfort to those who may be grieving the loss of a loved one.
Frequently asked questions about “Always”
1. What inspired the writing of the song “Always” by Killswitch Engage?
The song was written by the band’s lead vocalist, Howard Jones. Although he hasn’t spoken much about what inspired the song specifically, he has explained that it is about the themes of perseverance, hope, and staying strong in the face of adversity.
2. What genre of music is Killswitch Engage?
Killswitch Engage is a metalcore band. This is a subgenre of heavy metal that combines elements of metal, hardcore punk, and sometimes other genres like death metal or thrash metal.
3. Who is the lead vocalist of Killswitch Engage?
As of 2021, the band’s lead vocalist is Jesse Leach. However, Howard Jones was the lead vocalist from 2002 to 2012 and recorded the song “Always.”
4. Has “Always” won any awards?
No, the song has not received any notable awards, but it has received significant airplay and garnered a large following since its release.
5. What album is “Always” on?
The song “Always” was released on Killswitch Engage’s fourth album, “As Daylight Dies,” which was released in 2006.
6. Is “Always” a single from the album?
No, “Always” was not released as a single from the album. However, it became a fan favorite and continues to be an essential part of the band’s live performances.
7. Has “Always” been covered by other artists?
Yes, “Always” has been covered by several bands and artists, including A Day to Remember and Boyce Avenue.
8. What other songs are on the “As Daylight Dies” album?
Other songs on the album include “My Curse,” “This Is Absolution,” “Breaking Their Hold,” and “Unbroken.”
9. What other albums has Killswitch Engage released?
Killswitch Engage has released eight studio albums to date, starting with their self-titled album in 2000. Their most recent album, “Atonement,” was released in 2019.
10. What is the meaning of the band’s name, Killswitch Engage?
The band’s name came from the idea of engaging a “kill switch,” which is a mechanism used to shut down or disengage a device. The name was meant to represent the band’s mission to create emotionally charged music that could “kill” negative emotions or thoughts.
11. What other popular songs has Killswitch Engage released?
Killswitch Engage has many popular songs, including “My Curse,” “End of Heartache,” “The Arms of Sorrow,” “The Signal Fire,” and “Holy Diver,” a cover of the classic song by Dio.
12. What other bands are similar to Killswitch Engage?
Bands that are similar to Killswitch Engage in style and genre include As I Lay Dying, Trivium, Underoath, Parkway Drive, and All That Remains.
