Heartbeat

ATB's 'Heartbeat' is a poetic exploration of the passage of time and the enduring nature of the human spirit. The song opens with the imagery of 'steady hands' guiding a wheel, symbolizing the control and direction we attempt to exert over our lives. The transition from a 'black sun' to 'shades of red' signifies the inevitable changes and cycles we experience, much like the changing seasons. This sets the stage for the central theme of the song: the transient nature of life and the permanence of the soul.

The recurring motif of the hourglass burning through its sand represents the relentless march of time, a force that cannot be fought or halted. Despite this, the song offers a comforting message: 'your soul is a never-ending road.' This line suggests that while our physical existence is finite, our essence, memories, and impact continue to resonate. The heart, a symbol of life and emotion, is portrayed as a constant, beating presence that keeps doors 'never fully closed,' indicating that connections and love persist beyond physical boundaries.

The song's chorus reinforces this idea of eternal connection. When ATB sings, 'When your heart beats here, you're always my heartbeats,' it emphasizes the lasting bond between individuals, even as they navigate the inevitable changes and challenges of life. The 'heavy falls the drum' and 'still lines we can never shape' evoke the unchangeable and often unpredictable nature of existence. Yet, within this rhythm etched in time, there is a sense of artistry and creation, as we 'fall back in the artist's clay,' suggesting that we are all part of a larger, timeless masterpiece.