**Artist Overview: Gin Blossoms**
Gin Blossoms is an American rock band formed in 1987 in Tempe, Arizona. Their music blends elements of power pop, jangle pop, and alternative rock, creating a distinct sound that has resonated with listeners for decades. The band gained widespread fame in the 1990s, particularly with the release of their second album, *New Miserable Experience* (1992), which produced several hit singles like "Hey Jealousy" and "Found Out About You." Their songs often reflect a mix of personal heartache, longing, and introspective lyrics, balanced with infectious melodies and guitar-driven arrangements.
The band’s core members include Robin Wilson (vocals), Jesse Valenzuela (guitar and vocals), Bill Leen (bass), Scott Johnson (guitar), and the late Doug Hopkins (guitar), who was instrumental in writing some of their biggest hits before his tragic passing in 1993. Over the years, the band has had a few lineup changes but has continued to create music that taps into universal themes of love, loss, and emotional vulnerability.
**The Song: "As Long as It Matters"**
"As Long as It Matters" is a standout track from Gin Blossoms’ 1996 album *Congratulations I’m Sorry*. This song was released as the third single from the album and became a significant hit for the band, earning them a Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. It showcases the band’s signature ability to write heartfelt, emotional lyrics that are paired with catchy, melodic instrumentation.
The song is a mid-tempo ballad that reflects themes of emotional resilience, vulnerability, and the complexities of relationships. Its delicate, jangly guitars, soft rhythm, and Robin Wilson's earnest vocals create a wistful and melancholic atmosphere that draws listeners in. The song is less about grand, dramatic moments in love and more about the quiet, unspoken understanding between two people who care deeply for one another, even when things aren’t perfect.
**Lyrics and Themes**
The lyrics of "As Long as It Matters" convey a sense of introspection and emotional reflection. The song opens with the lines, "How can I find us something that two can take / Without stumbling as we walk into our future's wake." These words capture the uncertainty that can exist in a relationship, especially when both individuals are navigating their own vulnerabilities and doubts. There’s a yearning in these lyrics, as well as a hope that despite the difficulties, the relationship can endure.
The chorus is simple yet powerful: "As long as it matters / As long as you're here with me now." It’s a message of valuing the present moment in a relationship, even if the future is unclear. The song doesn’t promise perfect love or a happily-ever-after but emphasizes the importance of being together and the comfort that comes from knowing someone is by your side through thick and thin.
**Musical Composition**
Musically, "As Long as It Matters" is a polished piece of 90s rock with elements of pop that make it accessible and radio-friendly. The guitar work is intricate yet understated, serving to support the emotional weight of the lyrics rather than overpowering them. The steady drumbeat and gentle bass lines further enhance the reflective nature of the song. Robin Wilson's vocal performance is soft but filled with emotion, perfectly capturing the bittersweet tone of the lyrics.
**Conclusion**
"As Long as It Matters" stands out as one of Gin Blossoms’ most heartfelt songs. It captures the band’s ability to balance melancholy with hope, creating music that resonates on both an emotional and melodic level. With its introspective lyrics and soothing musical arrangement, the song remains a memorable part of the 90s alternative rock scene, highlighting Gin Blossoms' talent for crafting deeply personal and relatable music.
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