About the song
The song’s lyrics paint a picture of two people who are far from perfect, acknowledging their past hurts and their current vulnerabilities. The repeated idea of “Collide” serves as a central metaphor for their relationship – a coming together that is perhaps inevitable but also potentially destructive. They recognize their imperfections (“You’re no angel, I’m no saint”) and the turbulent history they share (“We both got scars from the hell we been through”). Yet, amidst this acknowledgment of their flaws, there’s a sense of resignation and a willingness to risk it all for another chance at love. The dynamic between Kid Rock’s somewhat world-weary and gravelly vocals and Sheryl Crow’s smoother, more melodic delivery creates a compelling contrast, highlighting the different perspectives and emotional landscapes of the two characters in the song. Their voices blend in a way that underscores both the tension and the underlying connection between them.
Musically, “Collide” leans towards a rootsy, heartland rock sound, fitting the overall tone of the “Born Free” album. The arrangement features prominent acoustic guitars, a steady and somewhat melancholic piano melody (with notable contributions from Bob Seger), and a subtle rhythm section that supports the song’s introspective mood. The production is organic and uncluttered, allowing the raw emotion in the vocal performances and the honesty of the lyrics to take center stage. The overall feel is one of weathered vulnerability and a cautious hope for reconciliation despite the acknowledged risks.
The collaboration between Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow on “Collide” marks another instance of their successful musical partnership, following their earlier hit “Picture.” Here, they delve into a more nuanced and perhaps darker portrayal of love, showcasing a different kind of chemistry. Crow’s presence adds a layer of established singer-songwriter credibility to the track, while Kid Rock’s willingness to explore a more vulnerable narrative broadens his artistic palette.
Ultimately, “Collide” is more than just a duet about a troubled relationship; it’s a raw and honest exploration of imperfection, shared history, and the precarious nature of love between two flawed individuals willing to risk another encounter. The contrasting yet complementary vocals of Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow, combined with the song’s rootsy arrangement and candid lyrics, create a compelling and relatable portrayal of a love that might just “Collide.”
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Lyrics
You’re no angel, I’m no saint, if we were
We wouldn’t be in this place tonight
Lost and lonely, scared and confused
We both have a past, nothing to lose, tonight
Well, it cuts like a knife these bad luck blues
We both got scars from the hell we been through
Somebody’s gotta win, somebody’s gotta lose
So let’s roll the dice, one more time
Take a chance on love again tonight
Risk it all, lay it on the line
Let the skeletons fight for life
Tonight, hold on tight, as we collide
Reconnected, feelin’ no pain
Seeking shelter like a spark in the rain, tonight (ooh yeah)
Worn and weathered, scared to go home
We’re here together, but still all alone, tonight (uh uh yeah)
And there’s no need to lie, we’ve both been abused
The love and the pain
Cocaine and booze, now
Most people don’t, but some people do
So let’s roll the dice, one more time
Take a chance on love again tonight
Risk it all, lay it on the line
Let the skeletons fight for life
Tonight, hold on tight, as we collide
As we collide
As we collide
So let’s roll the dice, one more time
Take a chance on love again tonight
Risk it all, lay it on the line
Let the skeletons fight for life
Tonight, hold on tight, as we collide
As we collide (oh, as we collide)
As we collide (we collide)
As we collide (as we collide)
As we collide
As we collide (as we collide)
As we collide
As we collide
As we collide
