Released June 21, 2004 Length 3:03 | Recorded 2003 | |
Format CD single7" picture disc Writer(s) Tom DeLongeMark HoppusTravis Barker | ||
"Down" is a song by the American rock band Blink-182, released on June 21, 2004 as the third single from the group's 2003 self-titled album. The song peaked at number 10 on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks chart.
Contents
Background
The song revolves around longing in a relationship, set to a rain-drenched soundscape. The original version of "Down" ran over six minutes long, and contained a drum and bass breakdown from Barker. Rumors circulated following the song's release that DeLonge penned the track on experiences with a previous girlfriend.
Release and live performances
"Down" was issued as a single in May 2004, and the band promoted the release with tour dates featuring Cypress Hill and on a nationwide tour with No Doubt. The single was a mixed success, peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart during the week of July 31, 2004, but quickly falling off afterward. The song also peaked at number 24 on the UK Singles Chart.
"Down" was one of few Blink-182 songs performed by Tom DeLonge's next band, Angels & Airwaves. During an August 2009 concert in Hartford, CT, the band dedicated the song to Adam Goldstein (DJ AM), who had died the night before following a drug overdose.
Music video
The song's music video was directed by Mr. Scandalous, and made its premiere on MTV on June 2, 2004. In the clip, Blink-182 are playing a house party when the police arrive and search for a gang member named Trouble, who slips away immediately. The cops, fronted by a lead policeman played by actor Terry Crews, unsuccessfully chase Trouble on foot, in cars, and in helicopters throughout South Central Los Angeles, but he evades their capture in the concrete L.A. River. The video features over 100 actors who were former members of gangs; these performers were signed to Suspect Entertainment, a company founded to provide a safe, legal alternative to joining such groups.
Track listing
All tracks written by Blink-182.