Dashboard Confessional

Lyrics

[Sorority Noise cover]

I started using again
Left my heart in rocky hill and a whole burning in bed
Needed a distraction from my head
Devil on my shoulder said try this instead
So I started using again

I started sleeping again
Traded late nights and sheep for vicodin
The guilt burning in my chest set in
I started sleeping again

[Chorus]
I stopped wishing I was dead
Learned to love myself before anyone else
Become more than just a burden
I know I'm more than worthy of your time

I started smoking again
Guess I missed coughing my lungs up every morning
Needed anything to keep my breathing
To prevent my blood from bleeding
I started smoking again

I started loving again
Thought when I lost that will to live I could never feel again
I'll give it one more shot and let someone in
I Started loving again
I started loving again
I started loving again
I started loving again
[Chorus]
I stopped wishing I was dead
Learned to love myself before anyone else
Become more than just a burden
I know I'm more than worthy of your timeEmbed

In this article, we will be diving into the heartfelt song "Using" by Dashboard Confessional. As a music expert with over 20 years of experience, I am excited to share my insights on this beautiful and emotionally charged track. "Using" is a poetic creation that captivates listeners with its raw vulnerability and profound lyrics, making it a standout piece in Dashboard Confessional's discography.

About Using

Released as a part of Dashboard Confessional's fourth studio album, "Dusk and Summer," in 2006, "Using" quickly established itself as a fan-favorite. The song follows the distinctive style of Dashboard Confessional, driven by Chris Carrabba's emotive vocals and introspective songwriting. As with many of the band's songs, "Using" explores themes of love, heartbreak, and self-reflection.

With its gentle acoustic guitar strumming and melancholic melody, "Using" creates an intimate atmosphere that draws the listener in. Carrabba's emotive delivery perfectly conveys the deep emotions embedded in the song's lyrics. The sincerity and vulnerability in his voice make it almost impossible not to be moved by the rawness of his performance.

Lyrically, "Using" delves into the complexities of a romantic relationship. The song reflects on the feeling of being used by a partner, exploring the pain and confusion that can arise from such a situation. The lyrics are introspective and honest, allowing listeners to connect with the emotions expressed in the song.

In "Using," Carrabba showcases his lyrical talent, crafting lines that are both relatable and thought-provoking. He sings, "Is this the way a toy feels when its batteries run dry?" This metaphor illustrates the feeling of being depleted or used up, comparing it to a toy losing its power. Such poignant imagery resonates with listeners and evokes a deep sense of empathy.

The composition of "Using" is simple yet effective, allowing the focus to remain on the poignant lyrics and Carrabba's impassioned vocals. The combination of acoustic guitar, subtle drums, and gentle string arrangements enhances the emotional impact of the song, creating a sonic backdrop that supports and heightens the lyrical content.

One of the remarkable aspects of "Using" is its ability to evoke a range of emotions within listeners. The track's somber tone and melancholic atmosphere can evoke feelings of sadness, introspection, and empathy. It is a song that pulls at the heartstrings and resonates deeply with those who have experienced the pain of feeling used or manipulated in a relationship.

Throughout its duration, "Using" maintains a consistent and captivating flow, never wavering in its emotional intensity. Carrabba's ability to express complex emotions with simplicity and sincerity is a testament to his skill as a songwriter. The song remains compelling from start to finish, with every word and note contributing to the overall emotional narrative.

In the realm of alternative rock and emo music, Dashboard Confessional has carved out a unique space. Their ability to merge introspective lyrics with powerful melodies sets them apart, and "Using" exemplifies this distinctive combination. The song is a testament to the band's enduring impact on the genre, captivating audiences and cementing their status as one of the leading acts in the emo movement.

In summation, "Using" by Dashboard Confessional is a poignant and introspective song that strikes a chord with listeners. Its evocative lyrics, heartfelt delivery, and emotive musical composition contribute to its enduring appeal. As you immerse yourself in the gentle melodies and delve into the insightful lyrics, prepare to be transported on an emotional journey that only Dashboard Confessional can provide.

• Release Date: 2017
• Artist: Dashboard Confessional