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Everlong
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| "Everlong" | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
European variant of standard artwork | ||||
| Single by Foo Fighters | ||||
| from the album The Colour and the Shape | ||||
| Released | August 18, 1997[1] | |||
| Recorded | January–February 1997 | |||
| Studio | Grandmaster Recorders (Hollywood, California) | |||
| Genre | ||||
| Length | 4:10 (album version) 4:49 (video version) | |||
| Label | ||||
| Songwriter | Dave Grohl | |||
| Producer | Gil Norton | |||
| Foo Fighters singles chronology | ||||
| ||||
| Audio sample | ||||
| Music video | ||||
| "Everlong" on YouTube | ||||
"Everlong" is a song by American rock band Foo Fighters, released in August 1997 as the second single from their second studio album, The Colour and the Shape (1997). The song reached number 3 on the US Billboard Alternative Songs chart and the Canadian RPM Rock/Alternative chart. It is often regarded as the band's signature song.[5]
"Everlong" was the last song performed live by drummer Taylor Hawkins before his death in March 2022.[6] As a result of his death, the song experienced a minor resurgence and entered the Billboard Global 200 at number 123, the band's first appearance on the chart. In 2021, Rolling Stone magazine ranked the song number 409 on their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Production
[edit]In late 1996, Dave Grohl was lodging at Bear Creek Studios in Woodinville, Washington, recording what was to be the second Foo Fighters album. While playing around with his guitar during downtime between takes of the song "Monkey Wrench" (which is in drop D tuning), he stumbled on a "Sonic Youth rip off" riff,[7] which he felt had the same vibe as one of that band's songs, "Schizophrenia".[8] He took a liking to it and decided to develop it into a song,[7] the band jamming on what became the verse. The song had not progressed beyond this rudimentary draft by the end of those sessions.[8]
Shortly thereafter, around Christmas time, Grohl returned to his residence in Virginia. As he was going through a divorce, he decided to stay at a friend's house, using a sleeping bag on the floor. It was there that he wrote "Everlong" as a proper song, in 45 minutes.[9] The lyrics were inspired by Grohl's ongoing romance with Louise Post of the band Veruca Salt:[10] "That song's about a girl that I'd fallen in love with and it was basically about being connected to someone so much, that not only do you love them physically and spiritually, but when you sing along with them you harmonize perfectly".[7] Grohl recorded a demo of the song soon after, during a visit to a friend's studio in nearby Washington, D.C. He describes the demo, on which he played all the instruments,[10] as being essentially the same as the album version, but "super raw".[8]
Grohl returned to the West Coast to continue work on The Colour and the Shape. He met with producer Gil Norton at Grandmaster Recorders in Hollywood again, and played the "Everlong" demo for him. Norton was impressed.[7][11] Soon, Nate Mendel and Pat Smear joined Grohl and Norton, and the group recorded the song. The solo guitar intro was recorded through an Astatic JT40 microphone, which outputs "dull" recordings with "no clarity".[12] Grohl wanted Post to provide vocals. She was in Chicago at the time, however, so her parts (doo doo doos alongside the lead guitar riff, and harmonizing on the chorus) were recorded using two separate telephone lines in the studio, one for her monitor, and the other for recording. Grohl recorded his chorus harmonies through the JT40,[12] which provided vocals at a similar level of fidelity as Post's. For the breakdown, Grohl recorded three spoken word tracks, one telling a story from assistant engineer Ryan Boesch's childhood, of being punished for disturbing his father's sleep, and two others of Grohl reading random passages from a book. The three tracks were planned to be blended together, but only the first was used in the final mix.[12]
Critical reception
[edit]"Everlong" is widely regarded as one of Foo Fighters' best songs. In 2020, Kerrang ranked the song number one on their list of the 20 greatest Foo Fighters songs,[13] and in 2021, American Songwriter ranked the song number two on their list of the 10 greatest Foo Fighters songs.[14]
"Everlong" reached one billion streams on Spotify on December 2, 2023, the 55th birthday of the Foo Fighters' bassist, Nate Mendel.
Live performances
[edit]The Foo Fighters traditionally close their shows with "Everlong".[15] To date, it is the band's most frequently performed song, with 1,095 live performances (as of June 2023[update]).[16] Since the song was released in 1997, it has been performed in all but four of the Foo Fighters' full-length concerts.[17]
Music video
[edit]The surreal, satirical video for "Everlong" was directed by Michel Gondry. It is, in part, a parody of the film The Evil Dead. The version of the song used in the video is longer than the single and album versions.
The video opens in black and white, with Smear and Mendel, dressed as Teddy Boys, outside of a house in which Grohl and his wife, played by Taylor Hawkins, are asleep. In Grohl's dream (in color), he is Sid Vicious[18] at a party, and Hawkins, as Nancy Spungen,[18] is being harassed by Smear and Mendel. In Hawkins' dream (also in color), his character is in a cabin reading a book, while Grohl gathers firewood outside. A hand appears from under a trap door in the floor of the cabin. Back in Grohl's dream, he attacks Smear and Mendel with his enlarged hand. He defeats them, and they vaporize (only to materialize in Hawkins' dream). Grohl and Hawkins escape the party into a room with an enormous telephone, which is ringing loudly. Grohl awakens in their bedroom, where their real phone is ringing. Hawkins, trying to fend off Smear and Mendel in his character's dream, phones Grohl. Grohl, in their bedroom, answers the phone, and realizes that Hawkins is in distress in Hawkins' dream. Unable to wake Hawkins, Grohl returns to sleep in order to enter Hawkins' dream and rescue Hawkins. Grohl finds a nunchaku among the logs that he is carrying in Hawkins' dream. He enters the cabin, and he and Hawkins overcome Smear and Mendel again. Grohl throws their bodies in a nearby lake. Smear and Mendel are then shown in Grohl and Hawkins' bedroom. All of the band members cast off their costumes, and the video ends with them performing the rest of the song as themselves.
Although Hawkins is shown drumming in the video, Grohl was actually the drummer on the song, as Hawkins had not yet joined the band at the time of its recording.
"Everlong" was nominated for Best Rock Video at the 1998 MTV Video Music Awards. On May 11, 2021, it passed 200 million views on YouTube.
Other versions
[edit]Although the song is normally performed with electric guitars, vocalist/guitarist Dave Grohl's solo acoustic variation gained popularity after an impromptu rendition on Howard Stern's radio show in 1998.[19] The band has performed it acoustically since then and an acoustic performance concludes their 2006 live CD and DVD Skin and Bones. Additionally, an acoustic version was released on Foo Fighters' 2009 Greatest Hits album.
A live version filmed at Hyde Park on June 17, 2006, was released on the Hyde Park DVD.[20]
A live version appears on the Live at Wembley Stadium DVD which was released in 2008.[21]
Eleven-year-old Ipswich musician Nandi Bushell joined Foo Fighters on stage to perform the song during their concert at the Forum in Los Angeles on August 26, 2021. Bushell had gone viral on YouTube in part due to her drum covers, including "Everlong", and her online drum challenge with Grohl in 2020, which drew millions of views before Grohl "conceded" defeat to Bushell. Grohl had offered her the chance to join Foo Fighters during a performance; it was delayed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[22] "Everlong" gained newfound popularity as a result of this performance and appeared on several Billboard charts that did not exist when the song was first released.[23]
Accolades
[edit]| Year | Publication | Accolade | Rank | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Kerrang! | 100 Greatest Rock Tracks Ever | 45 | [24] |
| 2009 | VH1 | 100 Greatest Hard Rock Songs | 28 | [25] |
| 2009 | Triple J | Hottest 100 of All Time | 9 | [26] |
| 2010 | Robert Dimery | 1001 Songs You Must Hear Before You Die | * | [27] |
| 2011 | NME | 150 Best Tracks of the Past 15 Years | 48 | [28] |
| 2013 | Triple J | Hottest 100 of the Past 20 Years | 6 | [29] |
| 2013 | Rolling Stone | Best Foo Fighters Songs readers' poll | 1 | [30] |
| 2014 | Triple M | Modern Rock 500 | 1 | [31] |
| 2019 | The Guardian | Dave Grohl's Landmark Songs | *
|
[32] |
| 2021 | Rolling Stone | 500 Best Songs of All Time | 409 | [33] |
* denotes an unordered list.
Usage in media
[edit]"Everlong" was used in "Lane Miserables", the eighth episode of the third season of Daria, an animated series on MTV. In the original broadcast, the song played as Daria Morgendorffer watched Trent and Monique leave to go on a date. The episode originally aired on MTV on July 14, 1999.[34]
"Everlong" has been featured in the music video games Rock Band 2, Rock Band Unplugged, Guitar Hero World Tour (which is exportable to other games) and Rocksmith 2014. It is also included in Rock Band for iOS and as a purchasable track in Fortnite Festival.
An arrangement of the song for string quartet was used in the Friends episode "The One with Monica and Chandler's Wedding", during the titular event. It was also used in a 1998 episode of the US daytime soap opera All My Children. The original version of the song was used in Martin Scorsese's 2013 film The Wolf of Wall Street. The song was also used briefly in the movie Little Nicky while Nicky is ascending his girlfriend's apartment building.
The song was used in early workprint versions of David Fincher's 1999 film Fight Club, playing over an unfinished version of the film's title sequence in place of The Dust Brothers' track "Stealing Fat" from the film's original soundtrack, which was used in the final theatrical film. Footage of the unfinished workprint intro sequence featuring "Everlong" has surfaced online.
Comedian and late night talk show host David Letterman has called "Everlong" his favorite song, citing it as having helped him through his recovery from heart surgery in 2000. Foo Fighters were invited to serve as the musical act on the February 21, 2000, episode of Late Show with David Letterman, the first since his surgery, to perform "Everlong." Grohl stated that he was "blown away" after learning that Letterman was a fan of their music. The band went as far as cancelling a stop on a tour in South America so they could perform, explaining that "We just felt like we had to be there. Not only was it an honor to be asked, but it felt like something we had to do – because he had always meant so much to us. And that started this connection that we've had for years. It's fucking cool, you know?"[35][36][37][38] On May 20, 2015, the band returned to perform "Everlong" again, the night of Letterman's final episode. The six-minute-long performance was set to a montage of footage spanning Letterman's career.[39]
Track listings
[edit]- UK CD1 (blue cover)
- "Everlong"
- "Drive Me Wild" (Vanity 6 cover)
- "See You" (Live Manchester Apollo May 25, 1997)
- UK CD2 (grey cover)
- "Everlong"
- "Requiem" (Killing Joke cover)
- "I'll Stick Around" (Live Manchester Apollo May 25, 1997)
- Australian CD single, Australian limited edition maxi-single digipack with bonus poster and Netherlands slimbox CD single
- "Everlong"
- "Down in the Park" (Gary Numan cover)
- "See You" (acoustic)
- Netherlands card sleeve CD single
- "Everlong"
- "Down in the Park" (Gary Numan cover)
- Promo (black cover)
- "Everlong"
- UK Limited Blue Vinyl Edition (blue cover)
- "Everlong"
- "Drive Me Wild" (Vanity 6 cover)
Personnel
[edit]- Foo Fighters
- Dave Grohl – lead vocals, lead guitar, drums
- Nate Mendel – bass guitar
- Pat Smear – rhythm guitar
- Additional personnel
- Louise Post – backing vocals
Charts
[edit]
Weekly charts[edit]
|
Year-end charts[edit]
|
Certifications
[edit]| Region | Certification | Certified units/sales |
|---|---|---|
| Australia (ARIA)[64] | 8× Platinum | 560,000‡ |
| Brazil (Pro-Música Brasil)[65] | 2× Platinum | 120,000‡ |
| Denmark (IFPI Danmark)[66] | Platinum | 90,000‡ |
| Germany (BVMI)[67] | Platinum | 500,000‡ |
| Italy (FIMI)[68] | Platinum | 50,000‡ |
| Mexico (AMPROFON)[69] | Diamond | 300,000‡ |
| New Zealand (RMNZ)[70] | 6× Platinum | 180,000‡ |
| Portugal (AFP)[71] | Platinum | 40,000‡ |
| Spain (PROMUSICAE)[72] | Platinum | 60,000‡ |
| United Kingdom (BPI)[73] | 3× Platinum | 1,800,000‡ |
| United States (RIAA)[74] | 2× Platinum | 2,000,000‡ |
|
‡ Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone. | ||
References
[edit]- ^ "australian-charts.com - Foo Fighters - Everlong". australian-charts.com. Retrieved March 27, 2023.
- ^ Thomas, Jeremy (November 15, 2014). "The 8 Ball: Top 8 Post-Grunge Bands". 411MANIA. Archived from the original on May 30, 2016. Retrieved October 5, 2019.
Songs like "Everlong," "All My Life" and "I'll Stick Around" are landmark post-grunge tracks
- ^ Richin, Leslie (January 12, 2017). "20 Alternative Rock Hits Turning 20 in 2017". Billboard. Retrieved November 29, 2018.
- ^ George, Richard (November 11, 2009). "Foo Fighters Greatest Hits Review". IGN. Retrieved October 5, 2019.
Most, like I once did, would try to define Grohl and his Foo companions (Taylor Hawkins, Nate Mendel and Chris Shiflett) as strictly being hard rock. And with hits like "Pretender", "All My Life" and "Everlong", it's tough to argue that point.
- ^ "The Story behind the Foo Fighters song 'Everlong'". August 18, 2021.
- ^ "Foo Fighters Setlist at Lollapalooza Argentina 2022". setlist.fm.
- ^ a b c d Morat (June 2006). "How Dave Grohl Will Light Up Your Summer - How To Write A Rock Anthem". Kerrang!. EMAP – via FooArchive.
- ^ a b c "Foo Fighters - 'Everlong'". Song Stories. NME. July 17, 2015. Archived from the original on December 21, 2021 – via YouTube.
- ^ Brannigan, Paul (November 2009). "Dave looks back in a career retrospective - "I was heartbroken, frightened and confused."". Mojo. EMAP – via FooArchive.
- ^ a b "Dave Grohl session at WGNS Studios, Dec, 1996". FooFightersLive.
- ^ "Foo Fighters session at Grandmaster Recorders, Jan - Feb, 1997". FooFightersLive.
- ^ a b c Huart, Warren (March 20, 2019). "Foo Fighters Everlong". Inside the song. Produce Like A Pro. Archived from the original on December 21, 2021 – via YouTube.
- ^ Law, Sam (July 3, 2020). "The 20 greatest Foo Fighters songs – ranked". Kerrang. Retrieved March 28, 2022.
- ^ Uitti, Jacob (November 24, 2021). "The Top 10 Foo Fighters Songs". American Songwriter. Retrieved March 28, 2022.
- ^ Childers, Chad (September 3, 2022). "Tearful Dave Grohl Plays First Foo Fighters Song Without Taylor Hawkins". Loudwire. Retrieved July 17, 2023.
- ^ "Foo Fighters Tour Statistics | setlist.fm". www.setlist.fm. Retrieved June 16, 2023.
- ^ "Foo Fighters Album Statistics | setlist.fm". www.setlist.fm. Retrieved June 16, 2023.
- ^ a b "A Deep Dive into Foo Fighters' Everlong Video". July 20, 2019.
- ^ "Dave Grohl And Taylor Hawkins From Foo Fighters Visit. 03/18/1998. 8:00am". MarksFriggin.com. March 18, 1998. Retrieved February 2, 2015.
- ^ "Foo Fighters - Hyde Park". Discogs. 2006.
- ^ "Foo Fighters - Live at Wembley Stadium". Discogs. August 25, 2008.
- ^ Doherty, Niall (February 4, 2021). "This 10-Year-Old Drummer Stole Dave Grohl's Heart — and Ours, Too". Variety. Retrieved April 15, 2021.
- ^ Trapp, Philip (September 10, 2021). "Nandi Bushell's Performance With Foo Fighters Puts 'Everlong' Back On The Charts". Loudwire. Retrieved September 23, 2021.
- ^ "100 Greatest Rock Tracks Ever". Kerrang!. No. 746. April 17, 1999. p. 29. Retrieved August 26, 2019.
As voted for by readers
- ^ "spreadit.org music". Archived from the original on February 12, 2009. Retrieved February 7, 2009.
- ^ "Triple J Hottest 100 of All Time 2009". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. July 20, 2009. Retrieved October 13, 2020.
- ^ Dimery, Robert, ed. (2010). "10,001 Songs You Must Hear...". 1001 Songs You Must Hear Before You Die. Octopus Publishing Group. p. 919. ISBN 978-1-84403-684-4.
- ^ "150 Best Tracks Of The Past 15 Years". NME. Retrieved November 8, 2011.
- ^ Triple J Hottest 100 of the Past 20 Years, 2013
- ^ "Readers' Poll: The 10 Best Foo Fighters Songs". Rolling Stone. February 20, 2013. Retrieved August 15, 2020.
- ^ "Triple M Modern Rock 500". Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved March 27, 2023.
- ^ Barlow, Eve (August 16, 2019). "Dave Grohl: 'I never imagined myself to be Freddie Mercury'". The Guardian. Retrieved August 22, 2019.
- ^ "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time". Rolling Stone. September 15, 2021.
- ^ "Lane Miserables". DariaWiki. December 18, 2023. Retrieved April 24, 2024.
- ^ "David Letterman: Famous Fans say Goodbye". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on May 23, 2015. Retrieved May 26, 2015.
- ^ Kreps, Daniel. "Watch Foo Fighters Score David Letterman's Career-Spanning Montage". Rolling Stone. Retrieved May 26, 2015.
- ^ Millman, Joyce (March 20, 2000). "The top 10 reasons David Letterman's heart bypass operation was a good thing". Salon. Archived from the original on February 11, 2011. Retrieved June 5, 2010.
- ^ "David Letterman's last musical guest on 'Late Show' will be Foo Fighters". New York Daily News. May 20, 2015. Retrieved May 21, 2015.
- ^ "David Letterman signs off from 'Late Show'". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved May 21, 2015.
- ^ "Foo Fighters – Everlong". ARIA Top 50 Singles. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- ^ "ARIA Top 20 Alternative Charts". ARIA Report. No. 392. August 31, 1997. p. 12. Retrieved November 27, 2021.
- ^ "Top RPM Rock/Alternative Tracks: Issue 3375." RPM. Library and Archives Canada. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- ^ "Eurochart Hot 100 Singles" (PDF). Music & Media. September 6, 1997. p. 12. Retrieved July 28, 2018.
- ^ "Foo Fighters – Everlong". Top 40 Singles. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- ^ "Official Scottish Singles Sales Chart Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved August 3, 2020.
- ^ "Foo Fighters: Artist Chart History". Official Charts Company. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- ^ "Official Rock & Metal Singles Chart Top 40". Official Charts Company. Retrieved April 15, 2017.
- ^ "Foo Fighters Chart History (Radio Songs)". Billboard. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- ^ "Foo Fighters Chart History (Alternative Airplay)". Billboard. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- ^ "Foo Fighters Chart History (Mainstream Rock)". Billboard. Retrieved November 13, 2016.
- ^ "Irish-charts.com – Discography Foo Fighters". Irish Singles Chart. Retrieved January 18, 2020.
- ^ Foo Fighters - Rock Digital Songs Chart history billboard.com. Retrieved February 2, 2016.
- ^ a b "Foo Fighters Chart History (Hot Rock & Alternative Songs)". Billboard. Retrieved April 7, 2022.
- ^ "ARIA Top 50 Singles Chart". Australian Recording Industry Association. April 4, 2022. Retrieved April 1, 2022.
- ^ "Foo Fighters Chart History (Global 200)". Billboard. Retrieved April 5, 2022.
- ^ "IRMA – Irish Charts". Irish Recorded Music Association. Retrieved April 2, 2022.
- ^ "NZ Top 40 Singles Chart". Recorded Music NZ. April 4, 2022. Retrieved April 2, 2022.
- ^ "Foo Fighters – Everlong". AFP Top 100 Singles. Retrieved April 7, 2022.
- ^ "Foo Fighters". Billboard.
- ^ "Airplay Monitor Best of '97: Mainstream Rock Tracks" (PDF). Airplay Monitor. Vol. 5, no. 52. December 26, 1997. p. 28. Retrieved December 26, 2023.
- ^ "Airplay Monitor Best of '97: Modern Rock Tracks" (PDF). Airplay Monitor. Vol. 5, no. 52. December 26, 1997. p. 30. Retrieved December 26, 2023.
Alternative Airplay was previously called Modern Rock Tracks
- ^ "Hot Rock & Alternative Songs – Year-End 2022". Billboard. Retrieved December 8, 2022.
- ^ "ARIA Top 100 Singles Chart for 2023". Australian Recording Industry Association. Retrieved January 12, 2024.
- ^ "ARIA Charts – Accreditations – 2023 Singles" (PDF). Australian Recording Industry Association. Retrieved November 16, 2023.
- ^ "Brazilian single certifications – Foo Fighters – Everlong" (in Portuguese). Pro-Música Brasil. Retrieved July 29, 2023.
- ^ "Danish single certifications – Foo Fighters – Everlong". IFPI Danmark. Retrieved February 1, 2025.
- ^ "Gold-/Platin-Datenbank (Foo Fighters; 'Everlong')" (in German). Bundesverband Musikindustrie. Retrieved January 25, 2023.
- ^ "Italian single certifications – Foo Fighters – Everlong" (in Italian). Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana. Retrieved November 25, 2019.
- ^ "Certificaciones" (in Spanish). Asociación Mexicana de Productores de Fonogramas y Videogramas. Retrieved October 30, 2025. Type Foo Fighters in the box under the ARTISTA column heading and Everlong in the box under the TÍTULO column heading.
- ^ "New Zealand single certifications – Foo Fighters – Everlong". Radioscope. Retrieved February 1, 2025. Type Everlong in the "Search:" field.
- ^ "Portuguese single certifications – Foo Fighters – Everlong" (PDF) (in Portuguese). Associação Fonográfica Portuguesa. Retrieved May 24, 2022.
- ^ "Spanish single certifications – Foo Fighters – Everlong". El portal de Música. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved April 8, 2024.
- ^ "British single certifications – Foo Fighters – Everlong". British Phonographic Industry. Retrieved April 12, 2024.
- ^ "American single certifications – Foo Fighters – Everlong". Recording Industry Association of America. Retrieved April 8, 2013.
Everlong
View on GrokipediaBackground and writing
Inspiration and development
Dave Grohl drew the inspiration for "Everlong" from the profound emotional upheaval of his divorce from photographer Jennifer Youngblood in 1996, a period that left him feeling isolated and essentially homeless. This personal crisis was juxtaposed with the excitement of a new romantic relationship with Louise Post, the frontwoman of Veruca Salt, which infused the song with themes of hopeful connection and harmony amid turmoil.[7][2][8] In late 1996, as the Foo Fighters worked on their sophomore album The Colour and the Shape, Grohl began sketching the track's core elements during recording sessions at Bear Creek Studios in Woodinville, Washington. The initial riff surfaced spontaneously while he was developing "Monkey Wrench," originally envisioned as a noisier, Sonic Youth-influenced idea in drop-D tuning. His time in Washington state, away from the band's touring schedule, allowed for this focused creative incubation of the music, blending the region's introspective isolation with an energetic drive reflective of his resilience.[1][7] Returning to Virginia for the holidays, over Christmas 1996, while crashing on a friend's floor in a sleeping bag during a break from studio work, Grohl completed the lyrics in a burst of about 45 minutes, channeling his raw emotional state into an uptempo rock framework that contrasted the underlying melancholy. This decision to craft a fast-paced, dynamic song—despite its poignant subject matter—stemmed from his desire to capture the exhilarating rush of newfound love, diverging from potentially slower, more subdued initial conceptions of the melody. The result was a track that embodied both vulnerability and vitality, born from one of the lowest points in Grohl's life.[9][2][3]Lyrical themes
The lyrics of "Everlong" explore themes of intense romantic longing, emotional vulnerability, and the desire for an enduring connection, capturing the euphoria and fragility of falling in love. Dave Grohl has described the song as being about a profound bond with a new romantic partner, emphasizing a harmony that transcends physical and emotional separation: "That song’s about a girl that I’d fallen in love with and it was basically about being connected to someone so much, that not only do you love them... you feel like you need them physically, emotionally, and you need to be with them constantly." This connection is portrayed without explicit autobiographical details, though it reflects Grohl's personal experiences during a period of relational transition following his 1996 divorce.[3][10] Opening lines such as "Hello, I've waited here for you / Everlong" symbolize a deep-seated anticipation and yearning for reunion, evoking the start of a transformative relationship amid personal isolation. The verse "Breathe out, so I can breathe you in / Hold you in" further underscores vulnerability, depicting an intimate interdependence where the narrator surrenders control to sustain the bond. These elements highlight the song's focus on love's raw exposure, where emotional openness risks loss but fosters resilience in the face of impermanence.[10][2] The chorus serves as a metaphor for an unbreakable connection persisting through life's changes, with lines like "If everything could ever feel this real forever / The way that it feels now when I hold you in my arms" pleading for the intensity of the moment to defy time and decay. Interpretations often see this as a resilient affirmation of love's potential to endure, contrasting the verses' hints of turmoil and separation, such as "Out of the red, out of her head she sang." This culminates in a hopeful yet urgent tone, balancing loss with the aspiration for lasting fulfillment.[10][2] The lyrics evolved rapidly from their inception, written in approximately 45 minutes during a solitary Christmas 1996 session in Virginia, where Grohl strummed an acoustic guitar. He then captured a raw demo at a friend's studio in nearby Washington, D.C. This early version closely mirrored the final recording on The Colour and the Shape (1997), with minimal alterations to the core structure and phrasing, though the full band arrangement amplified their emotional delivery. While specific rejected lines from drafts remain undocumented in public accounts, the swift composition process preserved the lyrics' spontaneous authenticity, tying them directly to Grohl's immediate emotional state without later revisions diluting their intimacy.[3][10][1]Composition and recording
Musical structure
"Everlong" employs a verse-chorus form anchored by an introductory guitar riff that establishes the song's driving momentum, progressing through multiple verses, pre-choruses, choruses, a bridge, and an outro, with a total runtime of 4:10.[11][12] This structure builds dynamically, starting with sparse, rhythmic verses that escalate into explosive choruses, creating a sense of emotional propulsion characteristic of alternative rock.[11] The song is set in the key of D major and maintains a tempo of 158 beats per minute, incorporating 4/4 time signature elements that blend alternative rock energy with accessible pop sensibilities for broad appeal.[13] At its core is Dave Grohl's signature guitar riff, played in drop D tuning with palm-muted open strings and ascending patterns, which recurs to unify the arrangement and provide a hypnotic foundation.[14][15] Layered atop this riff, Nate Mendel's bass lines mirror the guitar's rhythm while adding depth through sustained notes, and Dave Grohl's drumming introduces dynamic shifts— from restrained hi-hat patterns in verses to powerful snare and crash accents in choruses— heightening the track's intensity.[16] The harmonic progression centers on a straightforward yet effective I-vi-V-IV sequence in the chorus (D-Bm-A-G), which resolves tension built in the verses, while the bridge amplifies this release through denser instrumentation and rhythmic acceleration, tying into the song's lyrical exploration of intense longing.[17][11]Production process
The production of "Everlong" took place during the sessions for Foo Fighters' second album, The Colour and the Shape, at Grand Master Studios in Hollywood, California, in early 1997.[7] The track was produced by Gil Norton, who guided the band through a period of intense studio work following initial pre-production in Seattle.[18] Recording occurred after the completion of "Monkey Wrench," with the riff for "Everlong" having originated as an impromptu idea during those earlier sessions at Bear Creek Studio in late 1996.[1] Band dynamics presented significant challenges during the album's production, particularly around the drumming. Original drummer William Goldsmith had contributed to early takes, but dissatisfaction with the results led frontman Dave Grohl to re-record the drum tracks for multiple songs, including "Everlong," without Goldsmith's knowledge, contributing to his eventual departure from the band.[19] Grohl performed the drums himself on "Everlong," alongside lead vocals and rhythm guitar, while Pat Smear handled lead guitar and Nate Mendel played bass.[7] These sessions emphasized Grohl's multi-instrumental role to capture the song's urgent energy. To achieve the track's signature dense, dynamic sound, the production incorporated extensive overdubs on guitars and vocals, building layered textures that enhanced the musical structure's shifts from quiet introspection to explosive choruses.[20] The final mix was handled by mixing engineer Chris Sheldon at Skip Saylor Recording in Los Angeles, California, ensuring a polished balance of the raw energy and intricate arrangements.[21]Release and promotion
Single formats
The single "Everlong" was initially released in physical formats in 1997, primarily as CD singles and vinyl editions in the UK, with promotional versions in the US, as part of the rollout for the album The Colour and the Shape. The UK CD1 single, catalog number CDCLS 792 on Roswell Records, was released on August 18, 1997, in a slimline jewel case with blue cover artwork; it included the title track backed by B-sides "Drive Me Wild" (a Vanity 6 cover from BBC Radio 1 session) and a live version of "See You" from the Manchester Apollo on May 25, 1997.[22] A companion UK CD2 single (catalog number 7243 8 84363 2 8 / CDCL 792) offered alternative B-sides, including "Requiem" (a Killing Joke cover) and a live recording of "I'll Stick Around" from the May 1997 Manchester Apollo performance, in a similar slimline case with grey cover.[23] In the US, a promotional CD single (catalog number DPRO 7087 6 12044 2 1) was distributed to radio and industry on the same date, containing only the album version of "Everlong" in a promo sleeve.[24] A limited-edition 7-inch vinyl single, pressed on blue vinyl under catalog number CL 792, was issued in the UK with a hype-stickered picture sleeve depicting abstract blue tones; the B-side featured "Drive Me Wild", a previously unreleased track recorded during album sessions.[25] International variations included an Australian CD single (catalog number 7243 8 84433 2 6), a limited edition mirroring the European tracklist with "Down in the Park" and acoustic "See You", including a bonus poster and regional markings.[26] A Japanese CD edition was released with exclusive obi strip and booklet artwork adapted for the local market, featuring bilingual credits.[27] Later digital reissues became available in 2009 via platforms like iTunes, coinciding with expanded album availability, and again in 2017 under RCA Records as part of the 20th anniversary edition, often bundled with the full album tracks in MP3 and streaming formats.[28]Marketing efforts
"Everlong" was released on August 18, 1997, as the second single from Foo Fighters' second studio album, The Colour and the Shape, through Roswell Records and Capitol Records.[27] The label's promotional strategy focused on building momentum for the album's follow-up single after the success of "Monkey Wrench," emphasizing the track's dynamic energy to appeal to rock audiences.[29] A key component of the marketing efforts was a targeted radio campaign aimed at alternative rock stations, which propelled "Everlong" to No. 3 on Billboard's Alternative Airplay chart. Capitol Records coordinated airplay pushes to capitalize on the song's crossover potential, blending post-grunge intensity with melodic hooks to secure rotations on major outlets. The music video, directed by Michel Gondry, premiered on MTV earlier that summer and received heavy rotation, serving as a pivotal promotional tool that amplified the single's visibility.[29][30] The release aligned with Foo Fighters' extensive 1997 touring schedule, including headlining shows and festival appearances like the Bizarre Festival, where "Everlong" was integrated into live sets from its debut onward to engage audiences and sustain buzz.[29][31] This tour support, backed by Roswell and Capitol, reinforced the single's promotion through direct fan interaction, with the band performing the track in nearly every full-length concert since its introduction.[32]Music video
Concept and filming
The music video for "Everlong," directed by acclaimed French filmmaker Michel Gondry in 1997, centers on a surreal dream-sequence concept that delves into subconscious fears and dual realities. Gondry developed the narrative by interpreting key lyrics from the song, crafting a story of intertwined dreams between a couple—portrayed by Dave Grohl and his bandmate Taylor Hawkins (in the role of his wife, notably in drag)—that closely aligned with Grohl's intended themes of emotional intensity and vulnerability, despite initial language barriers during their collaboration.[33] The video's core idea draws from subconscious motifs, including nightmarish invasions and psychological tension, blending performance elements with abstract visuals to evoke a sense of inescapable reverie.[34] Filming occurred over two days in Los Angeles, where Gondry employed practical effects to achieve the video's otherworldly quality, favoring tangible techniques over digital enhancements for a timeless aesthetic. A key artistic choice was the use of split-screen effects to juxtapose the characters' sleeping, domestic reality with their chaotic, awake dream states, creating parallel narratives that heighten the sense of disorientation and intimacy. Band members, including Grohl and drummer Taylor Hawkins as the central couple, featured prominently alongside brief cameos from guitarist Pat Smear and bassist Nate Mendel, integrated seamlessly into the dream logic. Symbolic elements such as oversized, menacing hands—representing uncontrollable urges—and floating, ethereal objects underscored the subconscious turmoil. Back projection was utilized for dynamic backgrounds, enhancing the horror-inspired sequences that parody elements from films like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, though Gondry noted his limited affinity for the genre.[33][35] In post-production, the editing process meticulously synchronized the visuals with the song's shifting tempos and dynamic builds, using rapid cuts and layered compositions to mirror the track's escalating energy and rhythmic changes. This approach amplified the video's heterogeneous storytelling, where performance footage interweaves with narrative surrealism, ensuring the dream sequences pulsed in harmony with the music's emotional arcs. The video's portrayal of blurred boundaries between dreams and reality briefly echoes the song's lyrical exploration of enduring longing amid subconscious unrest.[35][33]Release and impact
The music video for "Everlong" first aired on MTV in 1997. It quickly entered heavy rotation on MTV, building momentum that propelled it to a debut on the network's Total Request Live (TRL) in 1998, where it became a viewer favorite amid the show's interactive format.[36] Early airings on MTV platforms generated significant viewership and played a pivotal role in elevating the single's visibility and sales, which ultimately reached over three million units worldwide.[37] By the 2020s, the video experienced a notable resurgence on digital platforms, with the official upload on YouTube surpassing 357 million views as of November 2025.[38] This enduring online presence has amplified its cultural footprint, particularly among younger audiences rediscovering '90s alternative rock. The video's surreal, horror-infused narrative—featuring dreamlike sequences and practical effects—has left a lasting cultural ripple, inspiring parodies and homages in subsequent media, including direct nods to its Evil Dead-style satire in fan recreations and tributes across film and television.[39] Its innovative direction by Michel Gondry contributed to an MTV Video Music Award nomination for Best Rock Video in 1998, alongside a nod for Best Special Effects.[40] This acclaim and broad exposure underscored the video's influence in propelling "Everlong" to enduring commercial success on rock charts.Critical reception
Initial reviews
Upon its release as the second single from Foo Fighters' second album The Colour and the Shape in August 1997, "Everlong" received strong praise from critics for its infectious energy and accessible rock sound, often highlighted as a key track that showcased the band's evolution. Rolling Stone's David Fricke, in his May 1997 album review, commended the song for its vivid romantic narrative, noting how Dave Grohl chronicles being smitten with a singer amid the album's tense, propulsive dynamics, calling it a highlight that balanced vulnerability with raw power.[41] AllMusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine echoed this in his contemporary assessment, describing "Everlong" as a power-pop gem driven by catchy hooks and a relentless rhythm, praising its role in elevating the album beyond post-Nirvana comparisons and establishing Grohl's songwriting maturity.[42] Spin magazine's 1997 coverage noted the track's emotional depth wrapped in an upbeat, anthemic package.[43] Radio stations and fans quickly embraced "Everlong" for its high replay value, as it became an alternative radio staple with significant airplay in late 1997 and early 1998.Retrospective analysis
In the 2020s, "Everlong" has continued to receive high acclaim in retrospective rankings of Foo Fighters' catalog and broader rock music. Kerrang! placed it at number one on their list of the 20 greatest Foo Fighters songs, praising its emotional depth and dynamic structure as emblematic of the band's peak creativity. Similarly, Rolling Stone ranked the track at number 409 on their updated 2021 list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, describing it as "a fittingly intimate monument to the alternative era" that endures as a pop-culture staple.[44][45] Following the death of drummer Taylor Hawkins in March 2022, tributes frequently highlighted his pivotal role in "Everlong," underscoring the song's rhythmic drive as a cornerstone of its appeal. Memorial performances, including the all-star Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concerts in London and Los Angeles later that year, featured renditions of the track with guest drummers like Chad Smith replicating Hawkins' precise, energetic fills, which critics noted added flair and intensity to the original recording. Reviews of these events and Hawkins' legacy emphasized how his drumming elevated "Everlong" from a strong composition to anthemic, with outlets like Pitchfork recalling his live mirroring of the studio drum track as a display of technical mastery and charisma.[46][47] Building on its initial praise for raw emotional power, modern critics have solidified "Everlong" as Dave Grohl's signature achievement in the post-Nirvana era, representing his transition to frontman with a balance of introspective lyrics and explosive instrumentation. Publications like Spin have argued it surpasses even Nirvana's output in polish and universality, crediting Grohl's solo writing process for infusing personal heartbreak into a universally resonant rock staple. This consensus positions the song as a defining artifact of Grohl's solo career trajectory, often cited for its role in establishing Foo Fighters as a enduring force beyond grunge's shadow.[48]Commercial performance
Chart positions
"Everlong" experienced notable chart success primarily on rock and alternative formats following its 1997 release, reflecting its appeal within those genres. In the United States, the single peaked at number 3 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart, where it remained for 28 weeks. It also reached number 4 on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. The song's performance benefited from the widespread airplay driven by its accompanying music video and promotional campaigns. Internationally, it charted modestly on mainstream singles lists but performed better in rock-specific rankings. The following table summarizes key peak positions and durations from the original 1997 release:| Country/Chart | Peak Position | Weeks on Chart | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Billboard Alternative Songs | 3 | 28 | Rate Your Music chart history |
| US Billboard Mainstream Rock | 4 | Not specified | Variety |
| UK Official Singles Chart | 18 | 2 | Official Charts |
| Australia ARIA Singles Chart | 28 | 3 | Australian Charts |
| Canada RPM Rock/Alternative | 3 | Not specified | Billboard |
Certifications
"Everlong" achieved its first certification in the United States when the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) awarded it Gold status on March 31, 2006, for 500,000 units sold. This was followed by 2× Platinum certification on August 31, 2017, for 2,000,000 units, incorporating both physical sales and streaming equivalents.[49] In the United Kingdom, the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) certified "Everlong" Silver in 2013 for 200,000 units, escalating to Gold in 2017 for 400,000 units; by 2024, it reached 3× Platinum for 1,800,000 units. In Australia, the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) certified the single Platinum in 2021 for 70,000 units.| Country | Certifying Body | Certification | Award Date | Certified Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | RIAA | Gold | March 31, 2006 | 500,000 |
| United States | RIAA | 2× Platinum | August 31, 2017 | 2,000,000 |
| United Kingdom | BPI | Silver | 2013 | 200,000 |
| United Kingdom | BPI | Gold | 2017 | 400,000 |
| United Kingdom | BPI | 3× Platinum | April 12, 2024 | 1,800,000 |
| Australia | ARIA | Platinum | 2021 | 70,000 |
Live performances
Early tours
"Everlong" debuted live on May 20, 1997, at Civic Hall in Wolverhampton, England, marking its introduction during the Foo Fighters' tour in support of their album The Colour and the Shape.[51] The song rapidly became a cornerstone of the band's setlists, serving as a high-energy closer or highlight that energized crowds and helped promote the album's release later that year.[51] Throughout the late 1990s, "Everlong" was a near-constant presence in live performances, appearing in approximately 77% of the band's shows from 1997 to 1999 according to concert tracking data.[51] It featured prominently at major events like the V Festival in 1997, where enthusiastic audience sing-alongs underscored its immediate appeal and role in building the band's connection with fans.[52] In 1998, the band began incorporating acoustic variants of "Everlong" into radio sessions, adding an intimate dimension to its live repertoire; a notable example is Dave Grohl's solo acoustic rendition on The Howard Stern Show in March of that year, which was the first such performance of the song.[53] These solo performances, featuring Grohl on vocals and acoustic guitar, strip the song back to its essentials, revealing the core strength of its melody and emotional depth, which many fans prefer for its more human feel compared to the raw energy of the full-band electric original (for further details on alternate takes, see "Other versions").[54] These early tours solidified "Everlong" as an essential element of the Foo Fighters' concerts through 2000, blending raw energy with emotional depth to captivate audiences worldwide.Notable later appearances
In 2007, the Foo Fighters delivered a standout performance of "Everlong" at the Live Earth concert held at Wembley Stadium in London, closing out the event with a high-energy set that included hits like "All My Life" and "Best of You" before an audience of over 52,000 attendees focused on raising awareness for climate change.[55] The rendition highlighted the band's raw power and crowd engagement, contributing to the global broadcast that reached an estimated two billion viewers worldwide.[56] The band headlined the Glastonbury Festival in 2017, marking their long-awaited Pyramid Stage appearance after a 2015 cancellation due to Dave Grohl's injury, where "Everlong" served as the explosive finale to a two-and-a-half-hour set attended by approximately 200,000 festivalgoers.[57] Grohl dedicated the song to a young fan who had lost her battle with cancer, amplifying its emotional resonance amid fireworks and a roaring crowd, solidifying the performance as a pinnacle of the band's festival legacy.[58] On June 24, 2023, the Foo Fighters made a surprise appearance at Glastonbury Festival on the West Holts Stage, closing their set with "Everlong" dedicated to the late Taylor Hawkins, marking an emotional return to the event and highlighting the song's ongoing significance in the band's live shows.[59] At the 2021 MTV Video Music Awards, the Foo Fighters incorporated "Everlong" into a medley alongside "Learn to Fly" and "Shame Shame," earning praise for blending their '90s rock roots with new material during a ceremony where they also received the Global Icon Award.[60] The set, performed for a televised audience of millions, underscored the song's enduring appeal and the band's influence across generations.[61] Following the sudden death of drummer Taylor Hawkins in March 2022, the band's performance of "Everlong" at his tribute concert on September 3 at Wembley Stadium emerged as an emotional high point, closing a star-studded event with over 80,000 fans in attendance and guest appearances from artists like Brian May and Roger Taylor.[62] Modeled after the 1992 Freddie Mercury tribute, the rendition featured Hawkins' son Shane on drums for parts of the night, channeling collective grief into a cathartic communal sing-along broadcast globally.[63] The Foo Fighters resumed touring in 2023 with Josh Freese on drums, continuing through 2024 and into early 2025 with the "Everything or Nothing at All" tour, where "Everlong" remained a staple closer, as seen in their June 2024 shows at London Stadium that drew capacity crowds of approximately 80,000 fans each night, totaling around 160,000 over two nights, and featured heartfelt nods to Hawkins.[64] These performances, including high-profile stops in the UK and North America, highlighted the band's resilience, with fan-recorded videos of "Everlong" garnering millions of views on platforms like YouTube, reflecting sustained live demand. Freese's tenure ended in May 2025, but the song's role in these resumptions affirmed its status as a live cornerstone.[65] In October 2025, the band announced the "Take Cover Tour" for North American stadiums in 2026, expected to feature "Everlong" prominently.[66]Other versions
Covers by other artists
"Everlong" has inspired a wide array of covers by other artists, spanning genres from classical to indie folk, often highlighting the song's emotional intensity and melodic structure. The Vitamin String Quartet delivered an orchestral interpretation in 2007 on their album The String Quartet Tribute to the Foo Fighters, reimagining the track as a sophisticated string arrangement that emphasizes its dynamic shifts through layered violin and cello lines.[67] In 2016, Boyce Avenue released an acoustic cover on their Cover Sessions, Vol. 3 album, stripping the song to guitar and vocals for an intimate, heartfelt rendition that has amassed over 6 million YouTube views.[68] Rick Astley offered a lounge-pop take in 2020 during a live performance, infusing the rock anthem with smooth vocals and retro flair as part of his ongoing musical tributes.[69] Greta Stanley provided an indie folk version in 2022 for triple j's Like A Version series, featuring delicate guitar work and harmonious backing vocals that underscore the song's romantic themes.[70] The 2020s have seen "Everlong" explode in popularity on TikTok, where viral user covers—often acoustic or a cappella—have collectively garnered millions of views, with creators like Braden Wayne and Cadalaymusic delivering emotional, stripped-down performances that resonate with younger audiences. Covers have also appeared on tribute compilations, such as the 2015 Tribute to Foo Fighters album by Relaxing Piano Covers, which presents a soothing piano adaptation suited for ambient listening.[71]Remixes and alternate takes
In 1997, during the recording sessions for The Colour and the Shape at Grandmaster Recorders in Hollywood, an unreleased rough mix of "Everlong" was created featuring harmonies by Louise Post of Veruca Salt, who was in a relationship with Dave Grohl at the time. This demo version included a unique phone call interlude from Post and was described by Grohl as feeling "off the cuff and unofficial," leading the band to re-record the track without her contributions for the final album release.[72][73] A live rendition from the Foo Fighters' One by One World Tour in 2003 appears on the 2003 DVD Everywhere but Home, filmed at Slane Castle in Ireland, showcasing the band's high-energy stage performance of the song amid pyrotechnics and a massive crowd.[74] The tour footage highlights "Everlong" as a centerpiece of their set, emphasizing its role in building the group's live reputation during that era. During the 2014 [Sonic Highways](/page/Sonic Highways) World Tour, supporting the album of the same name, "Everlong" was performed at every one of the 91 shows, often as a climactic closer that engaged audiences with extended jams and fan sing-alongs, reflecting the song's enduring popularity in the band's live repertoire.[75] Dave Grohl's solo acoustic performances of "Everlong" feature just voice and guitar, stripping back the song to reveal the core strength of its melody and emotion. While the electric original provides raw energy, many fans prefer the acoustic rendition for its more human feel. Grohl has noted that the acoustic version gives the song new life by better representing its original emotional intent. In 2021, the Foo Fighters released an acoustic rendition of "Everlong" recorded at Studio 606 for the Oates Song Fest charity event, stripping the track to intimate guitar and vocals while preserving its emotional intensity, distinct from the original's driving rock arrangement.[76] This version underscored the song's versatility and was made available as part of broader online performances.[77]Accolades and legacy
Awards and rankings
"Everlong" earned recognition through several formal awards and nominations, primarily for its accompanying music video. At the 1998 MTV Video Music Awards, the video, directed by Michel Gondry, received nominations in three categories: Best Rock Video, Best Special Effects in a Video (for effects by Paul Sokol and Chris W.), and Best Art Direction in a Video (art direction by Bill Lakoss).[78][40] The song has also featured prominently in various music rankings and polls, underscoring its critical and fan acclaim as one of the Foo Fighters' signature tracks and a standout in rock music. In 2009, VH1 placed "Everlong" at number 28 on its list of the 100 Greatest Hard Rock Songs, highlighting its dynamic energy and emotional depth. In the 2021 update to Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, compiled from votes by over 250 artists, writers, and industry figures, it ranked at number 409, praised for its intimate yet anthemic quality.[79] In 2023, Entertainment Weekly and Consequence both ranked "Everlong" as the number one Foo Fighters song in their respective lists of the band's best tracks.[80][81] Fan and critic polls have consistently elevated "Everlong" to the top of Foo Fighters-specific lists. Loudwire named it the number one Foo Fighters song in their 2016 ranking of the band's 10 best tracks, citing its status as a fan favorite in both full-band and acoustic forms.[82] Similarly, Kerrang! ranked it first on their 2020 list of the 20 greatest Foo Fighters songs, describing it as the definitive choice due to its predictable yet undeniable excellence.[44] These accolades reflect the song's foundational role in the band's catalog and its broad appeal in alternative and hard rock circles.Usage in media and culture
"Everlong" has been prominently featured in various films and television shows, enhancing emotional and dramatic moments. In the 2013 film The Wolf of Wall Street, directed by Martin Scorsese, the song plays during a montage sequence underscoring themes of excess and intensity.[83] On television, it appeared in the 1999 episode "Tess, Lies and Videotape" of Roswell, contributing to a pivotal romantic scene, and in the 2001 episode "Undergrads" of the animated series Undergrads. Additionally, an acoustic version featured in the season 7 finale of Friends, "The One with Monica and Chandler's Wedding, Part 2," during the couple's wedding ceremony, amplifying the heartfelt conclusion.[83][84] In sports contexts, "Everlong" has become an anthem, particularly in hockey. It serves as the goal song for the Seattle Kraken NHL team, energizing crowds since the franchise's inception in 2021 and symbolizing the high-energy excitement of the sport.[85] During the 2023 Super Bowl week in Phoenix, Arizona, following the death of Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins in 2022, Dave Grohl performed an acoustic rendition of the song at a pre-game concert at the Crescent Ballroom, dedicating it as a tribute and connecting with fans amid the event's festivities.[86] The song's presence extends to video games, where it has been included as playable content in rhythm-based titles. It debuted in Rock Band 2 in 2008, allowing players to simulate the track's guitar, bass, drums, and vocals, and was later released as downloadable content for Rock Band 4 in 2017. In 2024, "Everlong" was added to Fortnite Festival, Epic Games' music mode within Fortnite, enabling virtual band performances and further embedding the song in gaming culture.[87][88] In the 2020s, "Everlong" continued to influence media and online culture. Its acoustic version inspired widespread use in wedding first dances, with countless couples choreographing routines to the song's introspective lyrics and melody, as noted in coverage of its emotional resonance in personal milestones. On social media, particularly TikTok, the track fueled viral drum challenges starting around 2021, where users attempted to replicate Taylor Hawkins' iconic fills, often in creative edits or covers that amassed millions of views and highlighted the song's enduring appeal to younger audiences. Rolling Stone described it as a "quasi-official pop-culture envoi," reflecting its role in evoking nostalgia and connection across generations.[89][90] In April 2025, Dave Grohl performed an orchestral version of "Everlong" with the Los Angeles Philharmonic at Coachella, underscoring the song's versatility in live settings.[91]Credits
Songwriting and composition
"Everlong" was written solely by Dave Grohl and registered with BMI in 1997 as work number 3990286.[92][93] Grohl handled the multi-instrumental composition, crafting the song's distinctive guitar riffs, vocal melodies, and basic arrangement during sessions for the Foo Fighters' second album in late 1996.[3][4] While the band contributed minor tweaks during rehearsals, the liner notes credit the song entirely to Grohl.[21] Publishing rights are held by M.J. Twelve Music (BMI), administered through Roswell Records.[94]Recording personnel
"Everlong" was recorded primarily at Grand Master Recorders in Hollywood, California, during sessions for Foo Fighters' second album, The Colour and the Shape, in early 1997.[18] The track was produced by Gil Norton, who oversaw the album's production to infuse a more polished pop-rock sensibility.[95]Musicians
- Dave Grohl – lead vocals, rhythm guitar, drums
Grohl handled multiple instruments on the track, including the driving drum performance that defines its dynamic shifts.[7] - Pat Smear – lead guitar
Smear contributed the searing lead guitar lines, adding texture to the song's intense choruses.[7] - Nate Mendel – bass guitar
Mendel provided the foundational bass work, supporting the track's rhythmic propulsion.[7] - Louise Post – backing vocals (uncredited)
Post, of Veruca Salt, sang backing vocals during the choruses, a contribution inspired by her brief romance with Grohl at the time.[72][95]
Production and Technical Personnel
- Gil Norton – producer
Norton guided the recording process, emphasizing the song's emotional intensity and structural contrasts.[95] - Bradley Cook – recording engineer
Cook engineered the bulk of the album's sessions, including "Everlong," capturing the band's live energy in the studio.[95] - Geoff Turner – additional engineer
Turner assisted with engineering duties during the Hollywood sessions.[95] - Assistant engineers: Ryan Boesch, Todd Burke, Don Farwell, Jason Mauza, Chris Laidlaw
These assistants supported tracking and overdubs at Grand Master Recorders.[95] - Chris Sheldon – mixing engineer
Sheldon mixed the track at Skip Saylor Studios in Los Angeles, refining its sonic clarity and punch.[95] - Bob Ludwig – mastering engineer
Ludwig mastered the final album at Gateway Mastering Studios in Portland, Maine, ensuring "Everlong" balanced dynamically within the release.[95]
