Today is gonna be the day, a lyric that resonates with millions, marks the beginning of Oasis’s iconic anthem, Wonderwall. But it’s more than just an opening line; it’s a statement of intent, a declaration of hope and anticipation that sets the stage for the song’s emotional journey. This deep dive explores the meaning behind “today is gonna be the day” and its significance within the context of Wonderwall and Oasis’s broader musical landscape.
The phrase itself is simple, yet potent. It embodies a sense of optimism, a belief that something significant is about to happen. This feeling is further amplified by the following line, “That they’re gonna throw it back to you,” suggesting a turning point, a moment of reckoning or perhaps redemption. This sense of anticipation is palpable, drawing the listener in and setting the stage for the emotional rollercoaster that is Wonderwall. The lyrics hint at past mistakes and the hope for a brighter future, a theme that resonates with many. The line “By now you should’ve somehow realized what you gotta do” implies a sense of urgency and personal responsibility.
The song then transitions into a more introspective tone with the lines “I don’t believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now.” This raw expression of emotion, a declaration of unique and intense love, is central to Wonderwall’s enduring appeal. It speaks to the universal desire for connection and the belief that someone understands you in a way no one else can. This feeling of deep connection is juxtaposed with the rumors and external pressures hinted at in the lyrics “Backbeat, the word is on the street, That the fire in your heart is out.”
The pre-chorus, with its imagery of winding roads and blinding lights, “And all the roads we have to walk are winding, And all the lights that lead us there are blinding,” evokes a sense of uncertainty and the challenges of navigating life and relationships. Despite these obstacles, the singer perseveres, driven by the hope embodied in the “today is gonna be the day” sentiment. The desire to communicate these complex emotions is evident in “There are many things that I would like to say to you, but I don’t know how.” This vulnerability further strengthens the emotional connection with the listener. The struggle to articulate feelings is a common human experience, making these lyrics relatable to a broad audience.
The chorus introduces the central metaphor of the song, the Wonderwall, “Because maybe, You’re gonna be the one that saves me, And after all, You’re my wonderwall.” The Wonderwall represents a source of support, strength, and salvation. It’s a person who provides a sense of security and belonging, someone who can help navigate the winding roads and blinding lights of life. The repetition of “maybe” acknowledges the uncertainty inherent in relationships but also emphasizes the hope that this person will be the one to provide solace and understanding. This reliance on another person highlights the vulnerability at the heart of the song.
The repetition of the opening line later in the song, but with a crucial change—”Today was gonna be the day, But they’ll never throw it back to you”—introduces a sense of disillusionment and lost hope. The shift from “is” to “was” signifies a missed opportunity, a realization that the anticipated change may not come. Despite this setback, the core message of the song remains focused on the hope for connection and salvation embodied in the Wonderwall. The repeated affirmation “You’re gonna be the one that saves me” emphasizes the unwavering belief in the power of this relationship.