“The Nights” by Avicii

Credit: Avicii – iTunes, PRMD Music

The Swedish songwriter Avicii, born Tim Bergling, was well known for his quick rise to fame in the electronic dance music scene and his untimely death from suicide. Despite fast tempos and catchy hooks, most of his songs explored morality, the brevity of youth, and life’s internal struggles. “The Nights” is a song that reflects this practice easily.

“Avicii’s songs were a shade darker,” notes Buzzfeed writer Sheridan Watson. “His lyrics were filled with repressed pain.”

With lyrics co-written by the song’s vocalist, Nicholas Furlong, “The Nights” serves as an inspiring anthem to those looking for life’s meaning and leaving this world without regrets. It explores the importance of pushing through the hardships of life and finding home wherever you may end up.

One day my father he told me

‘Son, don’t let it slip away’

He took me in his arms, I heard him say (Hey)

‘When you get older

Your wild heart will live for younger days

Think of me if ever you’re afraid’

Furlong’s father plays an important role in the song, as both the person who inspired it and the voice of reassurance in the lyrics. Parents are often sources of wisdom and role models, not only when we are young but also as we — and they — age and we seek their advice all the more. 

In speaking of his father during a Reddit event, Furlong revealed, “I also recall many convos of him saying that I’d only ever know how things would play (out) if I took the ride. He really gave me the courage to blindly throw myself out into the world.” 

The lyrics remind us that time is guaranteed to no one. Whether you die young or live to an older age, living without regret is a meaningful goal. In Furlong’s case, the song is also an homage to our elders, by urging us to live a passionate and fulfilling life.

He said, ‘One day you’ll leave this world behind

So live a life you will remember’

My father told me when I was just a child

‘These are the nights that never die’

While many might attribute this catchy chorus as an opportunity to seize the day on the dance floor, it’s also a sobering introspection on how short life can be. 

This song was released as part of Avicii’s 2014 “The Days / Nights” EP, reaching No. 1 in the UK dance charts. It’s both an impressive entry and a haunting backdrop to Avicii’s death from suicide just four years later in 2018. It can serve as a meaningful tribute to those who dedicated their lives to their passions.

Credit: Shawn Tron, Flickr, Wikipedia

When thunderclouds start pouring down

Light a fire they can’t put out

Carve your name into those shining stars

He said, ‘Go venture far beyond the shores

Don’t forsake this life of yours

I’ll guide you home no matter where you are’

Whether you’ve lost a younger loved one or are mourning an older role model, “The Nights” by Avicii can serve as a poetic dedication to their life’s passions, whatever form they might take.