A Day To Remember – If It Means A Lot To You: Lyrics and Music Video

"If It Means a Lot to You" by A Day to Remember is a heartfelt acoustic ballad from their 2009 album Homesick. Known for blending post-hardcore and pop-punk sounds, this song marks a softer, more emotional departure for the band, focusing on themes of longing, distance, and the strain that separation puts on relationships. Featuring guest vocals by Sierra Kusterbeck of the band VersaEmerge, the song quickly became a fan favorite and is recognized for its tender lyrics, vocal harmonies, and relatable narrative.

Key Details:

• Release Date: 2009 (as part of Homesick)
• Album: Homesick
• Writers: A Day to Remember
• Guest Vocals: Sierra Kusterbeck of VersaEmerge

Themes and Meaning:

• Long-Distance Relationships: The song captures the emotional toll that distance and time apart can have on relationships. The lyrics are filled with longing and the hope that things will eventually work out.

• Heartache and Sacrifice: The narrative reflects the sacrifices made for love and the heartache that comes with feeling alone or unsupported when trying to make things work.

Lyrics Overview:

The chorus poignantly conveys the song's central themes of commitment and uncertainty:

• "If you can wait till I get home, then I swear to you that we can make this last."

These lyrics highlight the struggle between being physically separated and wanting the relationship to endure.

Musical Style:

• Acoustic Ballad with Pop-Punk and Emo Influences: The song opens with gentle guitar and vocals, creating an intimate atmosphere. As it progresses, it builds with vocal harmonies and a fuller sound, moving toward a pop-punk feel.

• Harmonies and Dual Vocals: The collaboration with Sierra Kusterbeck adds emotional depth, as her harmonies contrast with the lead vocals, underscoring the dual perspectives in a relationship under strain.

Commercial Success:

• Fan Favorite and Critical Acclaim: Although it wasn’t released as a single, "If It Means a Lot to You" has become one of A Day to Remember’s most popular songs, resonating with fans for its heartfelt lyrics and accessible sound.

Background and Creation:

• A Departure from Their Usual Sound: Known for their heavier sound, A Day to Remember took a different approach with this song, showcasing their versatility and ability to handle softer, more introspective material.

• Sierra Kusterbeck’s Collaboration: The addition of Kusterbeck’s voice brings a fresh perspective, representing the voice of the other person in the relationship, which adds complexity to the song’s narrative.

Legacy and Reception:

• Fan Acclaim: The song is often considered one of the band’s best and has become an anthem for fans dealing with long-distance relationships or relationship challenges.

• Popular in Live Performances: "If It Means a Lot to You" is a staple in A Day to Remember’s live shows, often inspiring sing-alongs with fans due to its emotional resonance and relatability.

Cultural Impact:

• Relatable Relationship Anthem: The song resonates with listeners facing similar relationship struggles, making it a go-to anthem for anyone experiencing the challenges of long-distance love.

• Influence on Emo and Pop-Punk Scenes: Its blend of acoustic sensitivity and pop-punk flair has influenced other bands in the genre to explore softer, emotional storytelling within the typically energetic style.

In Summary:

"If It Means a Lot to You" by A Day to Remember is an emotional ballad about love, distance, and longing. Released in 2009, it became one of the band's most cherished songs, known for its relatable lyrics, acoustic styling, and touching duet with Sierra Kusterbeck. With its heartfelt message and memorable melody, "If It Means a Lot to You" remains a fan favorite and a defining track in the band’s discography, celebrated for its tender exploration of the complexities of relationships.