“Hang On Every Word” by Matchbox Twenty

“Hang on Every Word” is another track from Matchbox Twenty’s album “Where the Light Goes”, which Atlantic released on 26 May 2023, that was produced by industry vet Gregg Wattenberg. And the writer of the song is Paul Doucette, one of the band’s multi-instrumentalists.

The title of this track is another way of a person saying that they are paying close attention to what another is saying. And in this case, the singer is making that assertion towards the addressee. Basically, he’s doing so as a roundabout way to raise his or her self-esteem.

In other words, said individual is depicted as if they are self-defeated. But Rob Thomas is letting this person know he is very much interested in how they feel, even if said feelings are negative. So it’s as if he is concerned enough about the addressee to lend an ear in what appears as an otherwise insensitive or uncaring world.

“Hang on every word
Word that you say
Let your voice be the edge of my world
When nothing goes right
And all you can speak is the hurt
I will hang
Hang on every word”

Comments on “Hang on Every Word”

DONALD says:

“‘Hang On Every Word’ is an absolutely amazing song from a super band. I had the opportunity to witness Matchbox Twenty’s performance at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, and let me tell you, it was an experience I’ll never forget. Though I wish they performed this particular song, the entire show was simply unforgettable. As a devoted fan since the 1990s, it’s hard to believe that was my first Matchbox Twenty concert. Circumstances beyond my control prevented me from attending earlier shows, but I can confidently say that it won’t be my last. Having the boys back on the music scene is truly a gift. I’ve missed their talent and the impact of their music on my life. Finally, we can once again enjoy their exceptional music and I’m eagerly looking forward to what they have in store for us in the near future.”

CYNTHIA says:

“I’ve been a fan of Matchbox Twenty since 1996. I’ve listened to every song on each of their albums. From ‘Yourself or Someone Like You’ to ‘Mad Season’ , ‘More Than You Think You Are’ and ‘North’ . If ‘Where the Light Goes’ or any of the songs on that album was my first exposure to their music, I doubt they would have won me over as a fan. This song is just not up to par with their standard. I mean, they have so many incredible songs in their discography, but this one falls flat.

In my opinion, the album is way below their average. I can’t help but feel that the long break they took has had a toll on their creativity. Being a longtime fan means I’ve invested my time and emotions into their music. I’ve grown to expect a certain level of quality and artistry from them, and this song just doesn’t deliver. It’s disappointing when a band you love veers off course and fails to meet your expectations. I hope they will find their way back to their true sound and regain the magic that made me fall in love with them in the first place. Until then, I’ll continue to cherish their older albums.”