Drum Sheet – Staind – It’s Been Awhile

“It’s Been Awhile” by Staind is one of the band’s most successful and iconic songs, capturing the emotional depth and raw intensity that characterizes their music. Released as the lead single from their 2001 album Break the Cycle, the song resonated deeply with listeners and became a defining track of the early 2000s.

The composition of “It’s Been Awhile” was a deeply personal process for lead vocalist Aaron Lewis. The lyrics reflect his struggles with addiction, failed relationships, and personal demons. Lewis’s confessional writing style is evident in the song’s introspective and poignant lyrics, which convey a sense of regret, longing, and self-awareness. This authenticity struck a chord with many fans who found solace in the song’s relatable themes.

Musically, the song was a collaborative effort involving all members of Staind. Guitarist Mike Mushok crafted the hauntingly melodic guitar riff that forms the backbone of the track, while bassist Johnny April added a rich, grounding bassline. Drummer Jon Wysocki played a crucial role in shaping the song’s rhythm and dynamic intensity. His drumming on “It’s Been Awhile” is characterized by its steady, powerful beats and carefully timed fills, which provide a solid foundation for the song’s emotional build-up and release.

The recording process took place at Long View Farm Studios in North Brookfield, Massachusetts, with producer Josh Abraham. The studio’s serene, rural setting helped the band focus and delve deeply into the emotional core of their music. Abraham’s production approach emphasized clarity and rawness, ensuring that the band’s intense performance and the song’s emotional weight were captured authentically.

“It’s Been Awhile” was released to critical acclaim and commercial success, becoming Staind‘s breakthrough hit. It reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart for an impressive 20 weeks. The song’s widespread radio play and MTV rotation helped it reach a broad audience, cementing Staind’s place in the mainstream rock scene.

For fans of drumming, Jon Wysocki‘s performance on “It’s Been Awhile” is a testament to his skill and sensitivity as a drummer. His ability to balance restraint and power, supporting the song’s emotional narrative without overpowering it, is a key element of the track’s success. Wysocki‘s drumming provides a steady pulse that enhances the song’s introspective mood and allows Lewis’s vocals and lyrics to take center stage. This combination of thoughtful composition and powerful performance makes “It’s Been Awhile” a standout track in Staind‘s discography.