Tom Grennan has returned with a deeply introspective and emotionally charged single, ‘Shadowboxing,’ a track that delves into the internal struggles of self-doubt, personal growth, and resilience. The British singer-songwriter, known for his raw, heartfelt lyricism and powerful vocals, has once again struck a chord with listeners, offering an anthem that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
A Fight Against Oneself
The song’s title, ‘Shadowboxing,’ is a metaphor for fighting an invisible opponent—oneself. Grennan paints a picture of battling inner demons, grappling with mental and emotional struggles, and striving for self-improvement. The opening lines of the chorus, “Everyday, I’m working, working, working on me / Constantly, I’m holding, holding, holding the beast down,” encapsulate this internal war, emphasizing the relentless effort required to overcome personal obstacles.
Lyrical Depth and Emotional Honesty
Grennan’s signature storytelling shines through the verses, where he candidly explores feelings of paranoia, pressure, and the weight of past decisions. Lines like “I’m paranoid, I’m paralysed / I’m half-alive behind the eye” reveal a vulnerability that resonates with many. The contrast between the desire for change and the temptation to fall back into old habits is palpable in “But, every night, I fantasise / Of kissing it just one more time.”
The song’s pre-chorus, “Painted nails and late-night cells / Girls and boys all in Hell / Baby, touch me, let’s get ugly / I don’t think I’m ready to fall,” further emphasizes the chaotic and reckless tendencies that come with battling one’s darker side.
Musical Composition – A Perfect Storm of Emotion
Musically, ‘Shadowboxing’ blends Grennan’s signature soulful vocals with anthemic instrumentation, creating an atmosphere that mirrors the turbulence of the song’s theme. The repetition of the chorus drives home the intensity of the struggle, while the layered production builds a crescendo of emotion that leaves listeners feeling both exhausted and empowered by the track’s conclusion.
The outro, with its haunting “Monkey on my back / Bad for my health” refrain, solidifies the message of an ongoing battle, one that doesn’t end easily. This phrase, often associated with addiction or burdens that won’t easily fade, adds another layer of depth to the track’s meaning.
A Relatable Struggle, A Universal Message
‘Shadowboxing’ is more than just a song; it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever struggled with personal demons, self-doubt, or the challenge of overcoming the past. Grennan’s ability to turn his own battles into music that connects with listeners is what makes him such a compelling artist.
With ‘Shadowboxing,’ Tom Grennan delivers a raw, honest, and powerful piece of music that reminds us all that while the fight for self-improvement is never easy, it is always worth it. The song stands as a testament to resilience, proving that even in the darkest of times, there is hope in the struggle.
