Long Island’s own Indie/Pop Rock band, BOXER, is back with another awesome single. I was first introduced to BOXER last spring/early summer then they contacted me about their debut single, “Stay Up”. Since then, BOXER has been on a mission to gain as much exposure as possible, playing shows throughout Long Island and making a kick ass name for themselves! Lenny, Andrew, Dave, and Johnny recently released “Principle & Heart”, their second single, and it is amazing!
BOXER took a completely different path when writing/recording “Principle & Heart” as compared to “Stay Up”. The band strayed away from the positive, upbeat sound that their fans are familiar with and came with a much more emotionally driven track. The deep, meaningful lyrics and the powerful instrumentals will have music lovers falling in love with BOXER. “Principle & Heart” sticks to the idea that everyone needs to follow their dreams and do what is right for them, regardless of what the people around them may think. In today’s world, we are obsessed with what others think of us. We try to hard to please the people that are most important to us, that many times we are blinded by them. We aim to make others happy and follow the advice of those people who have our best interest at heart even if deep down we know that it is not what will make us happy.
I got the chance to speak with BOXER about their take on “Principle & Heart”. “This song is about everyone telling you what they think is best for you, and in your mind you ethically agree with them because it logically, it makes sense, but your heart is telling you something else. Deep down you know there is a greater potential in yourself. People may not like it or accept it, your loved ones may not like it or accept it, but it doesn’t matter. For example, people grow up going to school to become a doctor. They practice their whole life. They go to school, do really well, earn their degree, and on a really good path. Until ultimately, they decide it doesn’t make them happy and decide to become a chef and open up a restaurant.”
“Principle & Heart” opens up with the chorus of the song. “You can read me how you want me to, see me how you want me doesn’t make me. Hold me if you want me to, you can only cater to yourself. You do what you gotta do, I’ll do what I have to make me happy. I can share, there is plenty of me.” Even though this song is packed with memorable lines, the chorus stands out to me every time I listen to the song. People are so afraid of upsetting someone close to us that we typically hold back from what will truly make us happy. Maybe family members don’t support the idea, or a best friend thinks it’s risky? Regardless of why, people don’t always follow what will truly make them happy. The chorus to this song is exactly what everyone who is in this position should say! Regardless of how someone views you, even if they believe they know what’s best for you, it doesn’t make a difference. You must follow your heart and forget about everyone else. If they truly care for you, they will support you no matter what!
BOXER has now released two singles and each of them are amazing. This is a band that I truly believe will take off, it’s only a matter of time. Make sure to check out BOXER’s social media accounts and check out one of their upcoming shows!