High On Life (feat. Bonn)

High On Life is a celebration of the transformative power of love and human connection. The central theme revolves around the idea that finding the right person can induce a state of natural euphoria that surpasses any artificial high. The lyrics suggest that love has the power to heal mental anguish, represented by the "demons" in the singer's mind, and bring clarity to a life that was previously chaotic or numb.

The song contrasts a "fast life" filled with fleeting moments and superficial connections ("strobe lights") with the grounding, authentic feeling of a deep romantic bond. The recurring promise to "walk a million miles" illustrates the extent of the protagonist's devotion and resilience. Ultimately, the phrase "high on life" serves as a metaphor for a state of perpetual joy and invincibility derived solely from being with the one you love, rejecting the need for escapism through other means.

The narrative begins with a confession of past internal struggles, describing a mind previously plagued by personal demons that have been silenced since the arrival of a significant other. This new presence acts as a purifying force, transforming a chaotic existence into a wild, free-flowing river. There is a sense of disbelief at former blindness, recognizing that clarity has only been achieved through this connection.

The protagonist admits to living a fast-paced existence, often using numbness to escape deep-seated feelings and allowing friendships to fade like fleeting strobe lights. However, this superficial cycle is broken by the genuine reality found in the partner. This realization fuels a profound commitment, sparking a willingness to traverse a million miles just to witness a single smile.

A pledge is made to stay side-by-side until death, fueling a shared state of natural euphoria—being "high on life"—that replaces the need for any artificial escape. Even when separation occurs or the partner seems out of reach like a ghost, the devotion remains unshaken, with the protagonist ready to cut corners and turn every stone to maintain this life-affirming bond.

The song was created by Martin Garrix in collaboration with Swedish songwriter and vocalist Kristoffer "Bonn" Fogelmark, along with co-writers Albin Nedler and Giorgio Tuinfort. The track also features production contributions from Garrix's frequent collaborators, Matisse & Sadko.

The release strategy for "High On Life" was intimately tied to the Tomorrowland music festival in Boom, Belgium. Martin Garrix premiered the song as the grand finale of his closing set on the main stage during the second weekend of the festival on July 29, 2018. In a coordinated move, the track was released to streaming platforms worldwide the moment his performance ended, creating a massive synchronized moment for fans both at the festival and at home. The official music video, released simultaneously, featured high-energy footage from that very performance.

The lyrics utilize several key metaphors to convey their emotional weight:

• "High on life": This is the central metaphor, likening the feeling of love to a drug-induced state of euphoria. It suggests that the relationship provides all the dopamine and excitement one needs, making life itself feel intoxicating.
• "Killed the demons of my mind": Represents the triumph over mental health struggles, anxiety, or past traumas. The partner is symbolized as a savior or a cure.
• "Strobe lights": Used to symbolize the fleeting, artificial, and perhaps disorienting nature of the party lifestyle or superficial fame, which stands in contrast to the "real" feeling given by the partner.
• "Walk a million miles": A hyperbole emphasizing limitless dedication and the willingness to endure physical hardship for the sake of the relationship.

The emotional landscape of the song is intensely euphoric and triumphant. It begins with a touch of vulnerability and reflection in the verses, acknowledging past darkness, but quickly ascends into pure joy. The chord progressions are major and uplifting, evoking feelings of hope and invincibility. The climax of the song (the drop) is designed to trigger a rush of adrenaline, simulating the very "high" described in the lyrics.

"High On Life" solidified Martin Garrix's status as a hitmaker capable of blending pop sensibilities with club energy. It became an instant fan favorite and a staple closing track for his live sets for years following its release. The song's association with the Tomorrowland aftermovie and closing ceremony cemented it as a modern festival anthem.

Critically, it was praised for its production quality and Bonn's powerful vocals, with many comparing its melodic style to the works of Avicii, viewing it as a respectful nod to the late producer's influence on the genre. It charted well globally, particularly in dance charts, and remains one of Garrix's most streamed songs.

The song follows a generally consistent rhyme scheme in the verses, often utilizing perfect rhymes (e.g., "mind/blind", "wild/child" implied tone) and slant rhymes (e.g., "feels/real"). The rhythm is set at a tempo of 128 BPM, the industry standard for "main stage" electronic dance music, which drives the song's energetic and jumping pace.

The lyrical rhythm is syncopated during the verses, mimicking a conversational yet urgent tone, while the chorus switches to longer, sustained notes ("High... on... life...") that align with the soaring melodic chords, creating a sense of openness and release.

Musically, the song is a quintessential progressive house track that balances emotional vulnerability with high-energy festival dynamics. It employs a classic verse-chorus structure that builds tension through Bonn's soulful, raspy vocal delivery before releasing it into a soaring, synth-heavy instrumental drop. The melody in the drop is euphoric and anthemic, designed to be chanted by large crowds.

Literarily, the song uses contrast effectively—pitting the "fast life" and "demons" against the stability and "smile" of the loved one. The production often mirrors this, starting with quieter, guitar-infused or piano-driven verses that allow the lyrics to breathe, followed by layers of saw-tooth synths that create a wall of sound, reinforcing the lyrical theme of overwhelming joy.

What is the meaning of 'High On Life' by Martin Garrix?

The song is about finding a love so powerful that it banishes personal demons and makes you feel naturally euphoric, or 'high,' without the need for drugs or alcohol. It celebrates connection and the willingness to do anything for a loved one.

Who is the singer on 'High On Life'?

The vocals are performed by Bonn, a Swedish songwriter and singer whose real name is Kristoffer Fogelmark. He also collaborated with Martin Garrix on other tracks like 'No Sleep'.

When was 'High On Life' released?

The song was released on July 29, 2018, immediately following Martin Garrix's headline performance at the Tomorrowland festival in Belgium.

Is 'High On Life' a tribute to Avicii?

While not officially labeled a tribute, many fans and critics noted the song's melodic similarities to Avicii's style. Released shortly after Avicii's passing in 2018, it is often seen as honoring his influence on progressive house music.

What genre is 'High On Life'?

It is primarily a Progressive House track, blending elements of Pop and EDM to create a radio-friendly festival anthem.