Something to Believe In
AVALAN ROKSTON , Avalan , Rokston
Song Information
Song Meaning
"Something to Believe In" by AVALAN ROKSTON is a dance-pop anthem that explores the profound and transformative power of finding a deep, almost spiritual connection with another person. The song's central theme revolves around the idea that a significant other can become a source of faith, stability, and meaning in one's life. The lyrics portray a relationship where the partner's presence is not just comforting but essential, acting as a healing force ('Your touch is like my therapy') and an irresistible, intoxicating force ('Your body is a drug that I can't ever leave'). The recurring phrase 'I got something to believe in' serves as the song's thesis, elevating the romantic connection to a quasi-religious experience. It suggests that in a world of uncertainty, the love and intimacy shared between two people can provide the ultimate anchor and sense of purpose.
The song delves into themes of authenticity and hope, presenting the relationship as a sanctuary from the outside world. The mention of a 'darker side of this paradise' hints at a complex, multifaceted relationship that embraces all aspects of each other, creating a unique and unbreakable bond. It's a celebration of finding someone who not only understands you but whose very presence makes you feel whole and gives you a reason to believe. The track's uplifting and melodic nature reinforces this message of hope and euphoric discovery.
Lyrics Analysis
The song narrates an intense, almost spiritual connection with another person, where their presence provides a profound sense of meaning and belief. The narrative begins by describing the captivating effect this person has, with their gaze calming the internal turmoil of the narrator, likened to a deep ocean. This initial interaction establishes a foundation of trust and significance, leading to the core declaration that in this person, the narrator has found 'something to believe in'.
The chorus expands on this idea, using powerful metaphors to convey the depth of this bond. The person's touch is described as 'therapy', a healing and restorative force. Their physical presence is likened to an addictive 'drug' that the narrator cannot quit, emphasizing a deep dependency and intoxicating allure. Being physically close to this person is what solidifies this newfound faith. The repetition of 'something to believe in' acts as a powerful refrain, cementing the central theme of the song.
The second verse intensifies the portrayal of this connection. The way the person calls the narrator's name causes their mind to 'accelerate', and every breath they take is as powerful and overwhelming as a 'hurricane'. This imagery suggests a passionate, all-consuming relationship that is both exhilarating and transformative. The lyrics then invite a journey into a more mysterious and intimate space, 'the darker side of this paradise', a place only the two of them can access, suggesting a unique and exclusive bond that transcends the ordinary. This journey is a shared experience that can last 'all the way tonight', implying a complete surrender to the moment and to each other.
The song culminates in a reiteration of the chorus, reinforcing the central message. The partner's touch is the ultimate remedy, and their body is an irresistible addiction. Their nearness provides the narrator with a powerful, unwavering sense of purpose and belief. The repetition drives home the idea that this relationship is the anchor in the narrator's life, a source of profound faith and emotional security in a world that may otherwise lack it.
History of Creation
AVALAN ROKSTON is a musical duo consisting of the Grammy-nominated Dutch vocalist and producer Valentijn Hoogwerf (Avalan) and the German producer and songwriter Emil Vogel (Rokston). The two met in Amsterdam during the 2022 lockdown when Rokston heard Avalan recording music from his house and approached him. They quickly discovered a shared musical vision and began collaborating.
"Something to Believe In" was written by Andrew Tyler, Valentijn Hoogwerf, and Emil Vogel. The production was handled by Avalan and Rokston, with mixing by Emil Vogel and mastering by Bram Fidder. The song was released on February 7, 2025, under the Universal Music GmbH / Island Berlin label. Even before its official release, the track gained massive traction on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, accumulating over 20 million views and thousands of user-created videos, which set the stage for its successful launch. The duo's sound, which blends melodic techno, pop, and trance, was praised by established artists like David Guetta, Armin van Buuren, and Moby, further building anticipation for the single.
Symbolism and Metaphors
The lyrics of "Something to Believe In" are rich with metaphors that elevate the romantic connection to a level of profound, almost sacred, importance.
- Therapy and Drugs: The most prominent metaphors are 'Your touch is like my therapy' and 'Your body is a drug that I can't ever leave'. 'Therapy' symbolizes the healing, calming, and emotionally restorative power of the partner's touch. It suggests that the relationship provides mental and emotional solace. The 'drug' metaphor conveys an intense, irresistible addiction and dependency, highlighting the intoxicating and all-consuming nature of their physical and emotional connection.
- Ocean: The line 'Calm the ocean deep inside of me' uses the ocean as a metaphor for internal turmoil, anxiety, or emotional chaos. The partner's gaze has the power to bring peace to this inner turbulence, symbolizing stability and tranquility.
- Hurricane: In contrast to the calming ocean imagery, the partner's breath is described as a 'hurricane'. This metaphor represents the exhilarating, powerful, and overwhelming force of their passion, capable of causing a whirlwind of emotions and accelerating the narrator's mind.
- The Darker Side of Paradise: This phrase suggests a hidden, intimate, and perhaps more complex dimension to their relationship. 'Paradise' implies a perfect, blissful state, but the 'darker side' points to a depth and exclusivity that only they can explore together, embracing all facets of their connection beyond the superficial.
Emotional Background
The predominant emotional atmosphere of "Something to Believe In" is one of euphoric hope and intense longing. The song captures the overwhelming feeling of finding an anchor in a tumultuous world, blending a sense of relief with passionate devotion. This emotional landscape is crafted through the synergy of its components. Avalan's soaring, heartfelt vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and earnest belief, while Rokston's electronic production provides an uplifting and anthemic backdrop.
There is a dynamic emotional shift throughout the song. The verses create a feeling of intimacy and calm reflection ('Calm the ocean deep inside of me'), drawing the listener into a personal space. This builds into the chorus, which erupts with a sense of triumph and ecstatic release, driven by the pulsating beat and the powerful vocal declaration. The bridge's mention of a 'darker side of this paradise' introduces a touch of tension and mystery, suggesting that this powerful belief is not born from simplicity, but from a complex, all-encompassing connection. The overall feeling is one of catharsis and immense gratitude for finding a profound, life-altering love.
Cultural Influence
"Something to Believe In" achieved significant cultural impact primarily through its viral success on social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram. Even before its official release in February 2025, the song had generated over 70 million views and was used in nearly 100,000 videos, creating massive organic hype. This digital footprint translated into commercial success, with the song entering the Official UK Singles Sales and Downloads charts. The track's popularity cemented AVALAN ROKSTON's status as promising newcomers in the global electronic music scene.
The song's fusion of pop vocals with melodic techno resonated with a broad audience and garnered support from influential figures in the dance music world, including David Guetta, Armin van Buuren, ARTBAT, and Moby. AVALAN ROKSTON's success with this single and others led to high-profile performances at major international festivals and venues like Tomorrowland 2025, SAGA Festival, and Ushuaïa Ibiza, showcasing the song's appeal in a live setting. The track is a key part of their discography, exemplifying their signature sound that bridges the gap between commercial pop and underground electronic music.
Rhyme and Rhythm
The rhythmic structure of "Something to Believe In" is built around a standard 4/4 time signature, typical of the dance-pop and electronic genres, with a tempo around 110 BPM. This provides a steady, danceable pulse that drives the song forward. The interplay between the driving electronic beat and the more fluid, emotive vocal melody creates a compelling dynamic. Lyrically, the rhythm is conversational in the verses, building to a more emphatic and rhythmically pronounced delivery in the chorus to emphasize the song's central message.
The rhyme scheme is relatively straightforward, primarily using couplets (AABB) and near rhymes to maintain a cohesive flow without feeling overly rigid. For instance, in the first verse, 'me' rhymes with 'me' and the internal 'deep' creating a simple structure: 'Every time you slide with me / The way you lay your eyes on me / Calm the ocean deep inside of me'. The chorus uses a rhyme scheme of AABB with 'therapy' and 'leave' and the repetition of 'believe in': 'Your touch is like my therapy (A) / Your body is a drug that I can't ever leave (A) / And when you're next to me (B) / Then I got something to believe in (C) / Something to believe in (C)'. The focus is less on complex rhyme patterns and more on creating memorable, anthemic lyrical hooks that resonate with the electronic arrangement.
Stylistic Techniques
"Something to Believe In" effectively blends literary and musical techniques to create its powerful impact. Musically, the song is a fusion of genres, combining a dance-pop structure with elements of melodic techno, trance, and future rave. This creates a sound that is both radio-friendly and suited for club and festival stages. The production features a driving beat, layered synthesizers, and a prominent bassline, characteristic of the electronic dance genre. Avalan's vocal delivery is highly emotional and soaring, providing a strong pop sensibility that contrasts with the underground-inspired electronic production from Rokston. The arrangement builds in intensity, leading to an anthemic chorus that serves as the song's powerful hook.
Lyrically, the song employs a direct, personal narrative voice (first-person). It relies heavily on metaphor ('touch is like my therapy,' 'body is a drug,' 'breath of you is like a hurricane') to convey the intensity of the emotions. The repetition of the titular phrase, 'Something to believe in,' functions as a strong refrain, reinforcing the central theme. The use of sensory and vivid language ('lay your eyes on me,' 'mind accelerate') creates an immersive experience for the listener.
Emotions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning behind AVALAN ROKSTON's song 'Something to Believe In'?
The song is about finding a profound, almost spiritual, sense of purpose and faith through a deep and intense connection with another person. The lyrics use metaphors of therapy and addiction to describe a love that is both healing and all-consuming, making the relationship the ultimate source of belief.
Who are the artists behind the song 'Something to Believe In'?
The song is by the duo AVALAN ROKSTON, which consists of Grammy-nominated Dutch vocalist/producer Avalan (Valentijn Hoogwerf) and German producer/songwriter Rokston (Emil Vogel).
When was 'Something to Believe In' by AVALAN ROKSTON released?
The song was officially released on February 7, 2025. It gained significant viral attention on social media platforms like TikTok prior to its official launch.
What genre of music is 'Something to Believe In'?
The song is primarily a Dance-pop track that incorporates elements of Melodic Techno, Trance, and general Electronic music, creating a sound that is suitable for both radio and festivals.
What do the lyrics 'Your touch is like my therapy, your body is a drug' mean?
This line uses powerful metaphors to describe the relationship's dual nature. 'Therapy' signifies its healing and emotionally restorative qualities, while 'drug' highlights its intense, addictive, and intoxicating passion that the narrator feels powerless to resist.
How did AVALAN ROKSTON form as a duo?
Avalan and Rokston met in Amsterdam during the 2022 lockdown. Rokston was on a walk and heard Avalan recording music in his house. He initiated a conversation, they decided to have a studio session, and their musical chemistry led to the formation of the duo.