The Meaning Behind The Song: Daylight by Matt & Kim
Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino, known famously as the indie-pop duo Matt & Kim, released their hit single “Daylight” in 2009. The song became a sensation and still resonates with people today. But what does the song mean? Why has it connected with so many people? In this article, we will explore the meaning behind “Daylight” and why it has become such an iconic song in modern pop culture.
The Lyrics of Daylight
The lyrics of “Daylight” are simple and straightforward. The song is about enjoying the moment and living life to the fullest. Matt & Kim urge listeners to forget their problems and dance in the daylight. The chorus repeats the line “In the daylight, I don’t want to go back to sleep” multiple times, emphasizing the desire to stay present and in the moment. The song is a celebration of life, living in the now, and not taking anything for granted.
The Inspiration Behind Daylight
Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino wrote “Daylight” during a difficult time in their lives. The duo was struggling to make ends meet because of financial troubles, and Matt was going through a tough emotional phase. In an interview with NPR, Matt said, “I was really unhappy, and writing this song was my way of convincing myself to be happy again.” Kim added that creating the song was like a “therapy session” for the duo.
The Reception of Daylight
Despite being a simple song, “Daylight” struck a chord with people across the world. The song became an instant favorite among college students and young adults, and it quickly climbed the music charts. The song’s catchy tune and uplifting message made it resonate with people from all walks of life. Today, “Daylight” is considered a classic tune and is regularly played at weddings, parties, and other events.
The Legacy of Daylight
Even years after its release, “Daylight” continues to be an influential song in pop culture. The song has been featured on movies, TV shows, commercials, and video games. The song’s success has helped Matt & Kim gain a large fan base and has allowed the duo to continue making music for over a decade. The song’s legacy continues to live on through its message of living in the moment and enjoying life to the fullest.
Top Cover Versions of Daylight
“Daylight” has been covered by many artists over the years, and some versions have become just as popular as the original song. Here are some of the top cover versions of “Daylight”:
1. Maroon 5 – The band performed a live version of “Daylight” during their world tour in 2013.
2. Lorde – The Grammy-winning artist covered “Daylight” during her North American tour in 2014.
3. Troubled Hubble – This indie-rock band recorded a cover version of “Daylight” for their 2005 album “Penturbia.”
4. Wavves – The indie-rock band recorded a version of “Daylight” for a tribute album to Matt & Kim in 2011.
FAQs
1. What inspired Matt & Kim to write “Daylight”?
Matt & Kim wrote “Daylight” during a difficult time in their lives when they were struggling with financial troubles. The song became a way for them to convince themselves to be happy again.
2. What is the message behind “Daylight”?
The song is a celebration of living in the moment and enjoying life to the fullest. It urges listeners to forget their problems and dance in the daylight.
3. Why is “Daylight” still so popular today?
“Daylight” is a catchy tune with a simple yet powerful message that resonates with people from all walks of life. The song’s success has allowed Matt & Kim to gain a large fan base and continue making music for over a decade.
4. What are some notable cover versions of “Daylight”?
Some notable cover versions of “Daylight” include Maroon 5’s live version, Lorde’s version during her North American tour, Troubled Hubble’s cover for their album “Penturbia,” and Wavves’ version for a tribute album to Matt & Kim.
5. What movies, TV shows, and commercials has “Daylight” been featured in?
“Daylight” has been featured in movies like “The Heat” and “Fame,” TV shows like “Community” and “New Girl,” and commercials for brands like Bacardi and Mars.
6. How has “Daylight” influenced Matt & Kim’s music career?
“Daylight” became a breakout hit for Matt & Kim, allowing them to gain a larger fan base and tour with many well-known artists. The song’s success has allowed them to continue making music for over a decade.
7. What is the story behind the music video for “Daylight”?
The music video for “Daylight” features Matt & Kim performing the song with hundreds of their fans in New York City’s Times Square. The video was a tribute to the city and its people and was recorded in a single take.
8. What are some similar songs to “Daylight”?
Some similar songs to “Daylight” include “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence + the Machine, “1901” by Phoenix, and “Tongue Tied” by Grouplove.
9. What awards has “Daylight” won?
“Daylight” has not won any awards, but it was nominated for an MTV Music Award for the Best Breakthrough Video in 2009.
10. What is the significance of the line “In the daylight, I don’t want to go back to sleep”?
The line emphasizes the desire to stay present and in the moment and not return to a state of unconsciousness or unawareness. It’s a metaphor for not wanting to go back to a time when life was difficult or unhappy.
11. What genre does “Daylight” belong to?
“Daylight” is a fusion of indie-pop, punk, and electronic music.
12. What message do Matt & Kim hope listeners take away from “Daylight”?
Matt & Kim hope that listeners take away the message of living in the moment, enjoying life to the fullest, and not taking anything for granted. They want people to feel empowered to dance in the daylight and forget their problems for a while.
