Meaning of Feelin’ by Van Halen

In the world of rock music, there are certain bands that define a generation. Van Halen is undeniably one of those bands, and their song 'Feelin' is a testament to their talent and ability to capture the mood of their time. This song, released in 1998, delves into the complexities of human emotions, questioning societal norms, and exploring the darkness that lies beneath the surface.At first listen, 'Feelin' may seem like a straightforward anthem for rebellion, but when you dig deeper, you uncover a plethora of themes that add layers of depth to the song. The overall theme of this track can be summarized as a voyage through the uncertainty and confusion of human emotions, juxtaposed against a backdrop of societal pressures and expectations.The opening lyrics, "Outta touch most the time, gotta lotta things on my mind," immediately set the stage for the emotional journey that is about to unfold. Here, we see the artist struggling with a sense of disconnection, of not being fully in touch with their own emotions. It speaks to a universal experience - the feeling of being overwhelmed by the complexities of life, unable to find a clear starting point.As the song progresses, a curious line catches our attention - "If I were you, if you were me, I wonder who I'd wanna be." This lyric opens the door to a theme of self-reflection and introspection. It poses the question of identity and self-discovery in the face of external expectations. The artist wistfully ponders what it would be like to be someone else, to have their experiences, their struggles. It taps into the universal desire to explore different paths and to question one's place in the world.Moving further into the song, we encounter the line, "Now black is white and white is black, got politicians smokin' crack." This lyric introduces a theme of disillusionment and frustration with the world. It reflects a sense of confusion and moral ambiguity, where even the most trusted and influential figures in society are revealed to be fallible and corrupt. It sheds light on the artist's growing dissatisfaction with the status quo, and their yearning for change.One of the most poignant lyrics in 'Feelin' is, "No, I don't like what I've been told I'm feelin', and I'm bleedin' like no one else will ever know I'm bleedin'." This line explores the theme of hidden pain and inner struggles. It highlights the artist's need for self-expression and the frustration of feeling misunderstood. It speaks to the universal experience of keeping one's true emotions concealed, while silently grappling with them on the inside.The final verse of the song brings forth dreams and visions as a lyrical theme. The lyrics, "I'm dreamin' things that show me what I'm seein'," portray a blurred line between dreams and reality. It taps into the artist's desire to escape the confines of their own mind and explore new perspectives. Dreams become a way to navigate through the chaos and uncertainty of life, offering glimpses into hidden truths and possibilities.In conclusion, 'Feelin' by Van Halen ventures into the depths of human emotions, societal pressures, and the longing for self-discovery. It explores the struggle to understand oneself while simultaneously navigating the expectations of society. Each standout lyric unveils a unique and imaginative theme, weaving a tapestry of introspection, disillusionment, hidden pain, and dreams. Through their rock anthem, Van Halen invites us to embark on a journey of self-exploration and embrace the complexity and richness of our emotions.