The meaning of Snowblind by Styx

Snowblind is a song by the American rock band Styx, released on their 1978 album Pieces of Eight. The song's lyrics were written by Tommy Shaw, one of the band's lead vocalists and guitarists.

The song tells the story of a person who is consumed by his addiction to cocaine, with lyrics that vividly describe the highs and lows of drug use. The chorus repeats the phrase "I'm snowblind," which refers to the feeling of being numb or disconnected from reality, much like someone who has become accustomed to using drugs.

The song's lyrics are often interpreted as a cautionary tale about the dangers of drug addiction, with Shaw drawing parallels between his own experiences and those of others. In an interview, Shaw explained that he wrote "Snowblind" after witnessing friends and acquaintances struggling with addiction: "I saw people around me who were getting hurt, who were losing their lives, who were losing everything... I just wanted to say something about it."

Musically, "Snowblind" is a standout track on the album, featuring a memorable guitar riff and soaring vocals from Shaw. The song's arrangement is characteristic of Styx's signature blend of hard rock and pop sensibilities, with a catchy chorus and a driving rhythm section.

Despite being released over 40 years ago, "Snowblind" remains a fan favorite and a staple of Styx's live shows. The song's message about the dangers of drug addiction continues to resonate today, making it a powerful and enduring part of their discography.