Meaning of About You - Mike Shinoda

Mike Shinoda's song "About You" delves into the intricate tapestry of emotions that arise in the wake of grief, loss, and the arduous quest for closure following the departure of a cherished individual. With poignant lyricism and a raw, emotive delivery, Shinoda guides listeners through the tumultuous odyssey of mourning, offering a visceral exploration of its reverberations across both personal and professional spheres.

The composition opens with a candid introspection into the aftermath of the loss, capturing the profound disorientation and chaos that often accompany such a seismic event. Shinoda articulates the disconcerting experience of grappling with the absence of his friend, underscoring the relentless repetition of bidding farewell ("Sometimes, sometimes you don't say goodbye once, You say goodbye over and over and over again").

As Shinoda reminisces about the preparations for a tribute show dedicated to his late friend, he confronts the overwhelming burden of grief and the uncertainty shrouding his ability to perform. Despite meticulous rehearsals and arrangements, he finds himself ensnared in unforeseen waves of sorrow and apprehension ("I get tackled by the grief at times that I would least expect").

The song's second verse delves deeper into Shinoda's internal strife and exasperation as he navigates the labyrinthine path of mourning. He confronts the stark realities of his situation with unflinching honesty, articulating a profound sense of bewilderment and fatigue ("What they saying, I'm not raw? What the fuck you take me for?"). Shinoda's impassioned delivery resonates with raw authenticity, laying bare the profound imprint of loss on his psyche.

Throughout the composition, Shinoda grapples with the elusive concept of closure and the cyclic nature of healing. He bemoans the ceaseless anguish of bidding farewell repeatedly, underscoring the enduring struggle of forging ahead ("Over and over and over again"). Shinoda's candid introspection provides a poignant glimpse into the multifaceted landscape of mourning, illustrating the arduous journey toward finding solace amidst profound loss.

"About You" emerges as a poignant testament to the indomitable resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through his introspective lyricism and fervent delivery, Mike Shinoda offers an unvarnished portrayal of the tumultuous voyage through grief and the relentless pursuit of closure. The song stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of loss and the profound strength found in confronting and navigating the complexities of mourning.