The The – "This Is the Day"
Overview
"This Is the Day" is a single by English band The The, written by frontman Matt Johnson and released on September 2, 1983. The track appears on their debut album Soul Mining and is widely recognized as a classic of the early 1980s new wave and synthpop era. It reached No. 71 on the UK Singles Chart and has since become one of the band's most beloved and enduring songs12.
Musical Style and Production
The song features a distinctive blend of new wave and synthpop, marked by the use of the omnichord, warm synths, accordion, and an infectious, upbeat rhythm. Its arrangement is both melancholic and uplifting, with a sound that balances introspection and optimism3.
Lyrics and Themes
"This Is the Day" is a meditation on change, memory, and the passage of time. The lyrics reflect on moments of self-realization and the bittersweet nature of growing older:
"You pull back the curtains
And the sun burns into your eyes
You watch a plane flying
Across a clear blue sky
This is the day, your life will surely change
This is the day, when things fall into place".
The verses evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, as the narrator looks back on past experiences and acknowledges that "all the money in the world couldn't buy back those days." The chorus, however, is hopeful and forward-looking, suggesting the possibility of transformation and new beginnings.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
- The song has been featured in films and TV series, including Empire Records, Threesome, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, and This Is England '8627.
- It has been used in high-profile advertising campaigns for brands like Levi's Dockers, M&M's, and Amazon2.
- "This Is the Day" was covered by Manic Street Preachers in 2011, further cementing its influence2.
- The song is often described as a "feel-good" track, despite its reflective lyrics, and is celebrated for its universal message of hope and renewal7.
Versions and Releases
- Original single (3:42) and album version (4:59)1.
- Extended 12" version (5:22).
- A re-recorded version, "That Was the Day," appeared on the Dis-Infected EP in 19931.
Key Facts Table
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Artist | The The |
| Songwriter | Matt Johnson |
| Album | Soul Mining (1983) |
| Release Date | 2 September 1983 |
| Genre | New wave, synthpop |
| UK Chart Peak | No. 71 |
| Notable Use | Films, TV, commercials, cover by Manic Street Preachers |
| Key Themes | Change, nostalgia, hope, self-reflection |
Summary
"This Is the Day" remains a touchstone of 1980s alternative music, blending wistful lyrics with an uplifting melody to capture the tension between memory and possibility. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal message: today could be the day when everything changes12.
