Phil Collins - In the Air Tonight

"In the Air Tonight" is one of Phil Collins' most iconic songs, released in 1981 as the lead single from his debut solo album Face Value. The song is famous for its haunting atmosphere, distinctive drum break, and Collins' emotionally charged vocal performance.

The lyrics of "In the Air Tonight" have long been the subject of speculation, with many fans wondering about the meaning behind them. The song has often been interpreted as a reflection of Collins' personal emotions following his divorce from his first wife. The lyrics seem to convey feelings of anger, betrayal, and emotional distance, with the recurring line "I can feel it coming in the air tonight" often seen as expressing anticipation for some kind of emotional reckoning or confrontation.

A key moment in the song is the dramatic drum break, which has become one of the most memorable moments in pop music history. It's a powerful, cathartic release that complements the emotional intensity of the lyrics. Over time, the song has also gained a cultural legacy, often used in movies, TV shows, and even as a meme, further cementing its place in music history.

Although some myths have arisen around the song's meaning—such as the false rumor that it was inspired by witnessing a drowning or a moment of revenge—Collins has clarified that the lyrics are more about the emotional experience of a breakup and the sense of foreboding that came with it.

Phil Collins In the Air Tonight Lyrics

I can feel it coming in the air tonight
Oh, Lord
And I've been waiting for this moment, for all my life
Oh, Lord
Can you feel it coming in the air tonight?
Oh, Lord
Oh, Lord

Well, if you told me you were drowning
I would not lend a hand
I've seen your face before my friend
But I don't know if you know who I am

Well, I was there and I saw what you did
I saw it with my own two eyes
So you can wipe off that grin
I know where you've been
It's all been a pack of lies

And I can feel it coming in the air tonight
Oh, Lord
Well, I've been waiting for this moment for all my life
Oh, Lord
I can feel it coming in the air tonight
Oh, Lord
And I've been waiting for this moment all my life
Oh, Lord
Oh, Lord

Well, I remember
I remember don't worry
How could I ever forget? It's the first time
The last time we ever met

But I know the reason why you keep your silence up
No, you don't fool me
Well, the hurt doesn't show
But the pain still grows
It's no stranger to you or me

And I can feel it coming in the air tonight
Oh, Lord
Well, I've been waiting for this moment for all my life
Oh, Lord
I can feel it in the air tonight
Oh, Lord
Oh, Lord
Well, I've been waiting for this moment for all my life
Oh, Lord

I can feel coming in the air tonight
Oh, Lord
Well, I've been waiting for this moment for all my life
Oh, Lord
I can feel it in the air tonight
Oh, Lord
Well, I've been waiting for this moment for all my life
Oh, Lord, oh, Lord

I can feel in the air tonight
Oh, Lord
Oh Lord, oh, Lord
Well, I've been waiting for this moment for all my life
Oh Lord, oh, Lord