Versions

The Drugs Don't Work
The Verve Lyrics

All this talk of getting old
It's getting me down my love
Like a cat in a bag, waiting to drown
This time I'm comin' down

And I hope you're thinking of me
As you lay down on your side
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

But I know I'm on a losing streak
'Cause I passed down my old street
And if you wanna show, then just let me know
And I'll sing in your ear again

Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

'Cause baby, ooo, if heaven falls, I'm coming, too
Just like you said, you leave my life, I'm better off dead

All this talk of getting old
It's getting me down my love
Like a cat in a bag, waiting to drown
This time I'm comin' down

Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

'Cause baby, ooo, if heaven falls, I'm coming, too
Just like you said, you leave my life, I'm better off dead

But if you wanna show, just let me know
And I'll sing in your ear again

Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

Yeah, I know I'll see your face again
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again

I'm never going down, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down, I'm never going down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never going down, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down, I'm never going down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down, I'm never going down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: RICHARD ASHCROFT

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

To comment on specific lyrics, highlight them

"The Drugs Don't Work" is a song by the British band, The Verve and is featured on their third album, Urban Hymns. It was released on 1 September 1997 as the second single from the album, charting at number 1 in the UK Singles Chart, becoming the band's most successful single in the UK.

Ashcroft wrote the song in early 1995. He briefly mentioned it in an interview at the time, relating it to his drug usage: "There's a new track I've just written, It goes 'the drugs don't work, they just make me worse, and I know I'll see your face again'. Read Full Bio"The Drugs Don't Work" is a song by the British band, The Verve and is featured on their third album, Urban Hymns. It was released on 1 September 1997 as the second single from the album, charting at number 1 in the UK Singles Chart, becoming the band's most successful single in the UK.

Ashcroft wrote the song in early 1995. He briefly mentioned it in an interview at the time, relating it to his drug usage: "There's a new track I've just written, It goes 'the drugs don't work, they just make me worse, and I know I'll see your face again'. That's how I'm feeling at the moment. They make me worse, man. But I still take 'em. Out of boredom and frustration you turn to something else to escape." Ashcroft also performed the song when the band were touring in support of A Northern Soul. The song was eventually recorded for Urban Hymns. The album's producer, Chris Potter later referred to it as both the best song and best vocal he had ever recorded.

According to Songfacts.com, the drugs in the song were ones given to Richard Ashcroft's father:
http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=3344

Whilst the exact meaning of the song is unclear, it is generally believed that composer Richard Ashcroft wrote the song in response to the death of his father , and is also thought to be influenced by his relationship with his wife, Ashcroft saying in an interview "to me, it's a lovesong".

The lyrics of the original demo varied from the eventual album track, with the main line changing from "They just make me worse" to "They just make you worse", as Ashcroft attempted to lyrically put across different points of view in the song; "They make you/me worse" reference to the medication his father taking keeping him alive for longer, but not actually making him better, seemingly making him worse.

The single was also noted during Channel 4's "100 Greatest #1 Singles" programme as unintentionally capturing the spirit of the nation as it was released the day after Princess Diana died.

The song has been covered by Ben Harper on his live album Live from Mars, and has also been covered by Skin. In Australia it was also covered by Grinspoon for youth radio station Triple J's Like A Version CD. Adam Gontier has released a version of this song; it has also been covered by Devorah project on its album Bitter sweet symphony / Drugs don't work (Euro House genre) in the 90's (1996). Also covered in Australia by Kate Ceberano on her live album Kate Ceberano and the West Australian Symphony OrchestraIn 2009, Taiwanese rock singer Faith Yang recorded the song as part of her album of English-language covers Self-Selected.

The song's music video begins with several references to The Verve's earlier work. The band appear in the same formation and clothes as they did at the end of the video for "Bitter Sweet Symphony". The cover of the machine on the front of the album No Come Down also appears briefly. The band turns around a corner and walk over to a vending machine called 'Feelings'. This is a reference to the song "Life's an Ocean" from their second album, A Northern Soul, where Ashcroft sings, "I was buying some feelings from a vending machine" (the same vending machine is also seen on the back of that album). The rest of the video shows the band indoors, playing the song, partially in black and white. The video ends with a piece of burning wood floating on water; the words 'Urban Hymns' are written on it. The original concept for the video was to have the band filmed in a maze to illustrate "loss of direction".

TRACKS

Genre not found

Artist not found

Album not found

Search results not found

Song not found

Most interesting comments from YouTube:

Limits98

1y↑259

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
All this talk of getting old
It's getting me down, my love
Like a cat in a bag
Waiting to drown
This time I'm coming down

[Verse 2]
And I hope you're thinking of me
As you lay down on your side
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

[Chorus]
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

[Verse 3]
But I know I'm on a losing streak
Cause I passed down my old street
And if you want a show
Then just let me know
And I'll sing in your ear again

[Chorus]
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

[Bridge]
Cause, Baby, ooh, if heaven calls
I'm coming too
Just like you said
You leave my life
I'm better off dead

[Verse 1]
All this talk of getting old
It's getting me down my love
Like a cat in a bag, waiting to drown
This time I'm coming down

[Chorus]
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

[Bridge]
Cause baby, ooh, if heaven calls
I'm coming too
Just like you said
You leave my life
I'm better off dead

But if you want a show
Then just let me know
And I'll sing in your ear again

[Chorus]
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again

[Outro]
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again, oh Lord
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again, oh Lord

I'm never coming down, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more

Vinyl Explorer

1y↑52

All this talk of getting old
It's getting me down, my love
Like a cat in a bag, waiting to drown
This time I'm coming down
And I hope you're thinking of me
As you lay down on your side
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse but I know I'll see your face again
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again
But I know I'm on a losing streak
As I pass down by your street
And if you wanna show, then just let me know
And I'll sing in your ear again
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse
But I know I'll see your face again
'Cause baby, oh
If heaven falls, I'm coming too
Just like you said
You leave my life, I'm better off dead
All this talk of getting old
It's getting me down, my Lord
Like a cat in a bag, waiting to drown
This time I'm coming down
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse but I know I'll see your face again
'Cause baby, oh
If heaven falls, I'm coming too
Just like you said
You leave my life, I'm better off dead
But if you wanna show
Then just let me know and I'll sing in your ear again
Now the drugs don't work
They just make you worse but I know I'll see your face again
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again, oh, Lord
Yeah, I know I'll see your face again, oh, Lord
I'm never coming down now, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down now, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down now, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down now, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more
I'm never coming down now, I'm never coming down
No more, no more, no more, no more, no more, no more

All comments from YouTube:

TheSuzanne92

4y↑9K

My dad died an alcoholic/drug user when I was 16 when I close my eyes I hear his voice singing this song. My dad wasn't perfect but he was my dad. ❤️

Lorraine Heath

Bro

Zackalieya Lee

omg so sad

Karen e bevans Wild

12w↑1

Love to you

Wesley Mercer

12w

You are beautiful

Matthew Stonecipher

15w

💖💖💖

494 More Replies...

Nick Neblo

52w↑271

What a song! I remember being a teenager and immediately picking up the guitar to find the chords and sing it

fitra sony

32w

this kind of thing is what I missed from today's music, that feeling of 'gotta know the chords to this song so that i can play and sing it'..

Mike Lavin

37w

Keep it up pal wish I could

Craig Ward

41w

I'm the same Catching That Butterfly 💖💯

Football Asylum

41w

@Acey Ace thank you

Acey Ace

44w

@Addy T Rolla the drugs don't work,they just make you worse. . .

4 More Replies...

SOPHIE

16w↑26

One of their best songs❤️

SOPHIE

11w

@favouritegroupie I totally agree!

favouritegroupie

11w↑2

Their best album if you ask me

Wishful Thinking

14w↑7

The kid running with the kite at the beginning says a lot. Those days of innocence and happiness are gone

Wishful Thinking

2y↑1.9K

This one goes out to everyone who is having a hard time. You'll get through it

Bull s*** Sorry🥊🥊

pls

Ina Kloss

Thank you 💗a Friend from germany

Annamaria Harle

10w

In My Opinion You Have To Understand What The Song Says 😔 Because IT IS Not Only Drugs Medication Are As I Can Say One Of ThoseOr Gaming etc There IS One little Sentence I Can't Explain How Ever Very Good Song But Tomi I Love You For All My Heart With All Love Annamaria 😊

Jordan Messenger

12w

So sorry to hear that iv lost friends and family to drugs its a hard addiction

Gorka O.O.

18w

thanks for remembering it

53 More Replies...

Catrina Smithdale

2y↑1.9K

This was one of my dad's favourite songs ever. He would listen to it over and over when I was a teenager. He passed away one year ago today. Miss him always 😢

Zackalieya Lee

sorry to hear tht

James Allan

10w

THIS IS A BEAUTIFUL SONG WITH TRUE LYRICS IT'S ABOUT ASHCROFT SINGING ABOUT HIS PARTNER WHO IS TERMINALLY ILL WITH CANCER AND HE CAN'T BELIEVE THAT SHE IS DYING AND THE DRUGS DON'T WORK ANYMORE THERE NOT TAKING HER PAIN AND MISERY AWAY HE DOESN'T WANT TO LIVE WITHOUT HER AND HE SINGS IF HEAVEN CALLS I'M COMING TO AND IF SHE NEEDS HIM TO HELP HER PAIN HE WILL SING IN HER EAR AGAIN SO SHE'S HIS LIFE AND IF SHE GOES HE IS BETTER OFF DEAD IVE JUST LOST MY HUSBAND JAMES ALLAN WHO PASSED AWAY ON THE 9TH OF JUNE WITH TERMINAL CANCER IN HIS GULLET I'M STILL HERE TELLING YOU THIS SAD STORY ME AND JAMES MADE A PACT WITH EACH OTHER IF HE DIES I'M GOING TO HEAVEN TOO BUT JAMES BEGGED ME IN HIS DYING DAYS TO NOT COMMIT SUICIDE OR MY SOUL WOULD NEVER GET INTO HEAVEN THIS IS ME BROKEN HEARTED BUT I'M RESPECTING HIS LAST WISHES I'M A SURVIVOR AND A STRONG WOMAN WHO RESPECTS HER MAN HE WAS MY ONLY MAN WE WERE TOGETHER FOR 34YRS I WILL NEVER EVER FORGET HIM AND I'M STILL NOT GOING ANYWHERE UNTIL THE LORD SENDS MY GUARDIAN ANGEL TO TAKE MY SOUL TO HEAVEN AND ME AND MY HUSBAND WILL BE TOGETHER AGAIN JUST LIKE TWO WHITE DOVES OF LOVE REST IN PEACE G.B.N.F GODBLESS MY ANGEL LOVE YOUR WEE WIFE FOR LIFE MRS MARIA ALLAN 3.8.1 SHINE ON YOU CRAZY DIAMOND WISH YOU WERE HERE X

Noise Pollution

12w

😶

Kate Geraghty

13w

Poor baby./
Am trying to not do the same to my children and grandchildren but am scared, your dad maybe have been the same.hang on, c

vidviewa

13w

Im so sorry for the loss of ur dad. He obviously had excellent taste in music. God bless you and help heal ur pain. X

102 More Replies...

wildlife awareness

16w↑2

To anyone that has an addiction I just wanted to let you know that even though it may not be clear but there is always hope and even if you don't know but people will mourn and love you and you are the only thing we want and there is always a road to get better, get clean and I hope if you fit this description you will find that road❤️

Shaun Handley

18w↑149

Clean 4 years of heroin and when you've lived a life of addictive substances this song means much more and hits even harder. Much love to all those who've come through the other side and much love to those who haven't and prayers to those gone to a better place than the one they couldn't manage to live happily in ❤️

Jude S

Well done for beating your addiction onwards and upwards

Froe

@Mike Moore Other addicts understand. Its why people go to meetings. Helps get them off drugs, too.

philip franklin

Soooo proud of u. keep pushing on, u r so precious

Mike Moore

Hope you still clean? I'm a addict n sick of it, no1 understands us addicts, I've never stole for drugs, it's a roller coaster ride we have, and we'll fucking done

Kim LeBlanc

Very honest, Very true & Perfectly said. @ Shaun Handley

9 More Replies...

🤍𝑻𝒀𝑹𝑶𝑵𝑬 𝑷𝑶𝑾𝑬𝑹🖤

18w↑137

We don't look for old songs, we look for the memories they carry

Paul Whelan

That is so true.

Michael Brown

11w↑1

Profound

Richard DeFino

15w↑1

Damn. That's so true. Well said

Realtor Marketing Queen

17w↑1

This is so true! ❤

La Joie Des Livres

16w

Ben Harper made a beautiful cover on his “Live from Mars” 👍

Terry Gribb

14w↑36

Probably one of the greatest songs ever written.

Wesley Taylor

15w↑7

20 years on crack and heroin. Clean for five years now. It's hard when things get tough and not use but I'm still taking a day at a time. That's all we can do. ❤️

Mike Jones

Crack is vicious I've spent over 20 thousand dollars in 4 or 5 months. One word to sum it up more I need help.

Limits98

1y↑259

Muhammad Nuryana

30w↑1

Mantap

Alan Grice

33w↑1

if youve been there you know what he was talking about see someone are you gonna score its all in your head me clean for 10 years had willpower split with my wife of 30 years because shes a bad crackhead no where to run no where to hide

Ivanhoe Galahad

40w

Danke❤

Tarr

48w

😌🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Riski Mubarok

Thank you

1 More Replies...

Alaina Rose Mckenzie

2y↑206

This song means so much to me. I used to listen to it on repeat when I was severely depressed, suicidal and addicted to prescription drugs. This song is 1 of a few that played a big role in getting me through the most difficult time in my life. I'm still struggling now, but thankfully I'm not the person I used to be and try every day to be a better person. Music is 1 of the most important things in my life. It's saved me many times when I was on the edge, I'd be truly lost without it 💜 Thank you, The Verve 💜

Lorraine Heath

That's fucked

DIO-77NL

30w

You are not alone, keep fighting you're worth it.

Michael John

35w

Keep going. You are a better person each day.

GamE FrEak

38w

Wow! How!!
Drugs don’t work!
I’m almost over the edge with myself. I’m better off dead. Need couple apple n the seeds need to be crushed.
Give me strength to end it finally

Vincent Berkhout

39w

@Melissa Nash hello Melissa,what are you coming off,methadone, benzos. Or if your in the states ,it's probably a deritive of oxy etc.
Keep it up thoe love,the world will keep on turning. Everyday your mind is getting clearer,might not notice it.But your getting back to normality.
And yes that's a problem in its self,but it's better than the madness you were in.And all the lying scum,and tricks that entail.
Best of luck kid,I mean that.

9 More Replies...

Nova Millar

18w↑46

I’m a recovering drug addict/alcoholic, and I’m 6 months clean. This song is how I felt every come down of the drink, meth, coke, mdma,pills etc. It hits home❤️

Mike Jones

God bless you

Paul Whelan

I can imagine it's so hard to stay clean. The best thing you can do is my childhood mate's are gone too soon with drugs.

SP Moran

11w

Keep going Nova . You can do it.

That Chrissy Girl

11w

You've got this ❤️

Graham Murphy

14w

No matter how long you have been recovering sweetheart you are still recovering. Much love to you for being strong! Keep it up!

4 More Replies...

B Dawg

1y↑159

I used to listen to this song while sitting in the cold shower during my depression attack episodes. Glad I’m slowly recovering but this song helped me through so much and still reminds me of the time i was deep down there

Des Gabriel

19w

Stories are all the same, only the character's different!

JT

20w

Stop listening depressing songs you attention seeker. I’ve got an idea next time you’re depressed put on “hey there you’re a rockstar” and let me know how you feel then

Daniel Merlini

27w

Depression does not exist lair search up cchr

attain

29w

You are here to help. Thank you.

Matthew Hale

34w↑2

Hope you are doing well. You are not alone. This song reminds me that I am not alone. I don’t experience depression all the time, but I do struggle with it. Wishing you success on this journey.

2 More Replies...

Becky Devlin

1y↑28

This is a timeless classic for everyone , and hits a raw beautiful nerve for us all who it holds a deeper meaning for . I lost my father to cancer and never really got to say goodbye . I miss him always . Every day I am reminded of him somehow x

Steve Connell

20w

Lost my mother to cancer makes me feel the same

Starry Starry Night

20w↑10

Richard Ashcroft is truly special. You don't have to be depressed to appreciate his songs, you just have to have deep feelings and emotions to
be in touch with his wonderful song writing. I was lucky enough to see him at Manchester Arena some years ago, and will always have
wonderful memories of that. I just hope that he knows just how special he is, because he comes across as such an unassuming guy.

Terence Meikle

8w↑3

One of the most poignant, emotionally resonant songs ever written. It's a heartbreaking listen.

Mason Crowley

44w↑9

The lyrics in songs by The Verve always hold such great meaning and importance. Great song!

Lego Technique

1y↑74

This is a great song I grew up in a rough part of Bolton and remember listening to it as a teenager kept me going through tough times getting badly bullied at school. I worked hard, overcame it and got into a top university while the bullies have never moved on. You can do anything you want if you set your mind to it

Marvin66

13w

Standard working class childhood in the 70s

rebecca-may

28w

good for you :)
i have always said that those who are bullied always end up better later in life than the bullies themselves. the experience of being bullied has taught me how to be strong and resilient.

Steven Taylor

28w

God bless you

Eric Marsden

36w

good for you pal

llcooljane

37w

@John Moores johnny fold.my estate is more upclass.oldhams estate.

7 More Replies...

calvan candy

5y↑3.2K

I lost my brother to heroin over 20 years ago when I was 14. I cried deeply tonight and I’m grateful I did - proper release. I love you John.

Michael Corleone

11w

❤

Jordan Munk

18w

John Theodore is my brother. On December 5th it will be 10 years since I found him with a needle in his arm. I had a dream (my second favorite dream) where I exited our garage where it was full of arguing and went into the house and JT was standing by the sink and I was full of absolute peace and contentment. I love you, John Theodore.

Mags Digby

26w

Sending love

Pete Radon

27w

🤣🤣🤣🤣

Vincent Berkhout

44w

Fucking drugs done us all,why couldn't we be like everyone else, the carnage it causes.

170 More Replies...

Tony Barclay

25w↑10

I've had many addictions in my life and none have ever worked, i was addicted to the addiction. This is a beautiful song and the words are powerful and true. Love to all fighting the fight

Squee 710

2y↑56

I heard this song in middle school and I loved the feels and lyrics. Now I’m 32 and am recovering from being addicted to fentanyl and Xanax and it has such a deeper feel. Honestly the drugs really don’t work no matter what you’re going through. I hope you all are safe. Remember it’s never too late to change. And remember you’re never alone. Don’t ever ever feel alone to the point you don’t go get help. I did that and once I went to get help and be around more people who were suffering Just like me I felt so much better. Love you all. Keep rockin out to all these amazing Songs that bring us more together than you know. 🖤

Chris Schneider

32w

btw valium is the weakest and easiest to get off. as opposed to xanax. because it stays in your system for 3 days. the longer it stays in your system. the easier the paws. dont trip

Chris Schneider

32w

@Darryl Green dont quit the valium cold turkey get thru the opiates first. stay clean for at least a year. then reduce the valium 10% every 10 days. im a pro at this. but im bipolar, and 2 benzos i will be on for life. work way better than most of the drugs for bipolars.

Darryl Green

32w↑1

Im also recovering from opiod addiction and valium but there so hard to stop because of the seizures do u no any tricks to stop the seizures?

kale

32w↑2

So proud of you 💛💛

kathleen floyd

so true. fun when youre 14, but true soul work to beat the grave

Ginger 15

22w↑16

I hope everyone reading this finds peace we're all in pain. just keep going you're stronger than you can imagine. I love you keep fighting❤️❤️🙏

Michifus 7w7

25w↑10

"La parte más triste de la vida es cuando la persona que te dió tantos recuerdos se convierte en un recuerdo" 😔

Dandy Muñoz

1y↑9

The Verve legendaria agrupación excelente musica

Emilio Gildu

1y↑7

Una de mis canciones favoritas, cuando estoy triste disfruto escucharla con mis audífonos para mi misma. Tanta melancolía....

Jordan Peters

23w↑4

One of the best songs ever, I suffered deep depression it sums up my life but also helped me realise and helped me move on!

Steve Spooner

41w↑12

The definition of a classic. One of the best voices there’s ever been 💯. Richard 👏🏻🇬🇧

Katie Hutchins

A close second to Chris Cornell

Blaiseoffury

3y↑277

I love how this song has a duality of meaning for people. It can mean anything from the drugs not working for cancer or depression and losing people to that but maybe getting to see them again somewhere far away. Or it could talk about losing people to drug addiction. Such a sweet and heartfelt song that has a glimmer of hope under the pain. The verve really channeled something real here.

Katie Hutchins

Perfectly said. It’s “detoxing” me from an emotionally abusive relationship.

mick smiff

10w

and i,ll sing in your ear again, you leave my life i,m better off dead! - Every word meant for His Gran! xx Much Love.

mick smiff

10w

he used to sing it! --- to his grandma!

Vincent Berkhout

44w

Thankyou.

Stephen D.C.

2y↑4

Drugs are the opposite of medicine. The healthcare prescribes drugs to mask problems instead of addressing the root problem... where is your plant medicine in your diet?

5 More Replies...

Anthony Van Rensburg

1y↑7

Such an absolute classic song this, hits you in the feels straight up and I feel the love this thread brings 😌😌. Thank you 💟

mogfinger

1y↑15

Beautiful song. One of my favorites. It's true. The drugs don't work, they just make you worse and anyone who's battled with it knows this and I'm trying to get off the bottle and sometimes its just hell

PSALM 51

Hell would be giving up n everything getting worse. You can do it, dont give up, there are great things waiting for you x

Ripley Hypnotherapy Derbyshire Clinic

23w↑2

One of THE best songs ever written, it means so much on so many different levels. It's just a masterpiece

Kevin Lewis

23w↑13

I remember when this was first released, I was about 19 I had terrible anxiety and depression on Prozac. The girl I was seeing went back to her boyfriend (I was the side piece ) I was suicidal I had a plan and had written letters. This song reminds me of that time and how things do change and can get better.

Kevin Lewis

11w

@SP Moran Thanks, in life you never know what's around the corner it's not alway bad.

SP Moran

11w

I am glad things are better for you.

Lukas Fudge

5y↑2.5K

As a recovering addict I can confirm that drugs and alcohol definitely don't work and do indeed make things worse. My life has improved so much since becoming clean and all I see now is a bright future.

Sebastian Cufer

19w

Good for you. I am at the point without drugs, but now life is just boring. Dont see a bright future😆🥲

Shaylyn D'Arcy

21w

stay clean bro

Pat Hat

21w

Poor u if u let something control u you are no in control 😎

Come on England

21w

It’s not about recreational drugs mate like I thought when this song came out, it’s sadder than you think because I think someone was actually dying and he made a beautiful song 😢

Jason Byrne

25w

Its not about drugs

251 More Replies...

jill McIntyre

25w↑5

This song hits my soul. This song is so personal too me just like most of you listening ❤

Angela G

28w↑2

This whole album, Urban Hymns, hold so many poignant memories for me. I especially feel it in my third chakra 🙏 Blessings to you 🙏🏼🖖

Jacques Moolman

41w↑2

I hope these guys make it into the big time...... they really deserve it!

D

1y↑5

I remember when II was lying in a hospital bed sedated that this song was somehow playing …..it’s true the drugs don’t work…..just a sad bandaid solution…..thank you for the music🙏💗

Matthew Waterhouse

1y↑4

Love this song so much. Even as a kid when it come out. It is mesmerising.

Matthew Shankland

2y↑6

My dad told me this is about his father, when he references the drugs don’t work, he was referring to the drugs used to make him better weren’t working, they made him worse. We played this song at his funeral, he had cancer and it echoed the truth, they didn’t work, they made him worse. ♥️

Mr Darren

37w

Ashcroft has said himself the song was never about his father and he has no idea where that rumour came from. He wrote it many years before his father passed away.

sarah cartwright

38w↑7

My mum passed away from cancer in 2021 still watching her suffer with all the medication they could give & none worked this song brings back child hood memories for me now it's brings me such sadness. Best song written still ..

rosevaleblue

25w

sarah my heart goes out to you and your family.This song is so special to my family members.
This song totally sums up the financial cancerous non effect response.

Eileen Mulligan

17w↑3

For my son who is in recovery keep strong and your faith my boy

Carlos Coombs

4y↑666

The verve is underrated, there songs have meaning behind it and I think they deserve more recognition.

TadRaunch

19w↑1

@Penguin of Death I'd say it's an insult to call The Verve "underrated". I would say they were robbed of a lot when it came to red tape and "Bittersweet Symphony"—there's not argument about that. But The Verve—and Richard Ashcroft–have never been underrated.

Kamilyah

19w

Until they came out with bitter sweet sympathy

KachZz

20w

Don't think they're underrated. They just didn't follow it through as Oasis and other Britpop bands did. They had a massive potential but fell short for some reason.

Penguin of Death

26w↑1

@Gabriel 'underrated' has to be one of the most overused words in the YT comment sections - add it to masterpiece, nostalgic, legendary, goosebumps, timeless, classic, iconic, anthem and banger

Vincent Berkhout

44w

Very true

18 More Replies...

Ellie Gee

1y↑2

Makes me cry every time. I don’t even have anything personal to relate this to, no one close to me has suffered from drug addiction or anything of the sort. But this is still such a powerful song for me. I’ve been struggling with my mental health since a young age, sometimes music is all it takes to escape for a little while

Carlos Paredes

47w↑3

After being afraid of ending up alone and let down in the process of trying to find love, at 38 I have just started to embrace what life has given me thus finding inner peace in myself. This song just made the perfect background for it.

Chris B_448

18w↑2

When I’m feeling down and in a bad place I reminisce on stuff that’s happened I have this on repeat, it’s heartbreaking and brings back so many memories but yet it always manages to make me smile again because it’s so relatable to good memories as well as the bad 💔💜

Watkins 82

29w↑3

This song is a masterpiece ✨️

Mohamad Roviansah

4y↑2.5K

I am dedicating this song for my father who passed away yesterday due to cancer. See you in eternity dad, we love you so much

APS3X9

52w

Abraço forte mohamad

W.C. van de Bovenkamp

R.I.P.

Chris Stock

Feel ur pain mate, he want you to smile in his memory

ragini pandey

I am so sorry

Andrew

R.i.p

156 More Replies...

Stacey Hickman

11w↑4

Just lost my grandad couple of days ago. Having a cry and a sing song. God this song touches my soul!

Smay Placebo

17w↑3

Such an amazing songwriter! 💜

Vaderlionheart

22w↑4

Los buenos temas nunca pasarán de moda para la vieja escuela👌

Crystal Love

23w↑4

This song speaks to me. I was put on antidepressants as a child. When I grew up, I realized that those drugs don't work.

Emil Cioran

2y↑1.1K

I grew up in a poor family. When I was 16 I worked that summer just to be able to buy this album and a cd player. I never bought music, but bought this. I remember my sister asked me why I bought this CD. Nobody in our family spent money on such "luxury". She heard me playing this song for hours back then.

Still today, she sometimes mention it.

I sometimes stop by here. Listen to the song and grieve. I am still poor and unhappy. No need for comforting comments. Life is a ho for all of us.

Dan Lane

@STU LANE your name is something people with little money eat… humble yourself & keep it to yourself

Martigny E.

Such a perfect nickname.

killer bigote

I was too..but it was never too late..I also got into meth...but I was glad that I came over it..but I kept my faith..I was praying for what i am now 10yrs ago..i thank God and to all the people who never give up on me..🙏🙏🙏🙏

jack Who

13w

@Laura Thomas yuk

jack Who

13w

1 year since you posted this comment ,and iv seen it for the first time . This song means a lot to a lot of us. If it helps your comment brought me a glimer of joy and nostalgia. I hope you have found peace

74 More Replies...

Leandro de Souza

24w↑4

Uma das músicas mais tristes e perfeitas que já ouvi. Sabe aquela música que te remete a um momento tão distante e bonito da sua vida que você chega a sentir um vazio no peito quando ouve os primeiros acordes ? Pois é : The Drugs Don't Work.

hob976

2y↑9

This song cuts right through me. Always did.

danny boy

49w↑3

It will be 10 years this year since i lost my dad,the memory of going to that hospital for the last time to say goodbye will haunt me for ever, whenever i listen to this song now it brings tears to my eyes miss him so much if only the drugs has worked

Ben Jones

26w↑7

i used to listen this song when i was really young and loved it, now im 24 and deep in addiction and such, and it hits me even more, on another level

R Rod

21w↑2

Bro there’s a light and the end of the tunnel dude. If you need someone to vent to brother I am here. You are not alone.

Natalie jane Wright

22w↑1

Things can get better. I’m 3 years clean from heroin and crack. I have my life back and everything I lost. Never give up! Like my grandad always said to me “keep going” ❤️

Johanna Keeble

24w

Surah Zummer:53

Lizzi

24w↑1

Hang in there. You can make this. Love to you

Patricia

46w↑1

It’s a fantastic sound and his voice is wonderful

Memphis Rains

28w

Love this song..words hit home hard being a recovering addict and think of all my friends that never made it like I have💔😪

Rhys Carey

1y↑13

10 years clean from heroine and crack cocaine; to the very month... Everytime I hear this tune it brings a tear to my eye. Thinking of those whom have been taken to substance. I Pray for you 🙏🤗

Vincent Berkhout

44w

Not easy is it,best of luck my friend.

Jason Wales

2y↑2

I used to drink to cut out bad thoughts, these days I’m in a better place and can enjoy nights out, this song just fits in to where I was

Leslie Leach

5y↑95

I used to have a huge drug problem and anytime this song was played on radio my poor mother would cry her eyes out listening to this song. It has so much meaning to me it's an absolute classic

Ann Raes

5y↑5

still fighting to myheroineAddiction,so hard & sad thug life !!!

Enlightened Normie

5y↑1

Leslie Leach
so sorry to hear that!!!

Gordon Ballard

46w↑5

1 day clean.
This song is riping a truth straight through my chest.

QUEFLAN

1y↑6

cuando murió mi papá hace 11 años me dieron la noticia y tenía que ir a casa de mis parientes a decírselo. Tomé las llaves de mi carro con un nudo en la garganta y prendí la radio. Estaba esta canción. Todavía no la supero y el inicio me duele hasta la fecha.

Vinyl Explorer

1y↑52

Jason R

1y↑9

Lost my brother in a car accident when he was 21 I was 18, used drugs ever since to cope only just started slow down now (I’m 22 now). ‘Now the dugs don’t work they just make you worse but I know I’ll see your face again’ are the truest words I’ve heard. I realise now how much damage I’ve done to myself but slowly learning and getting better

1 - up

48w

Yo hope everything getting better even if it a little bit

Sherie Smith

1y↑1

Your day will be soon where you tell yourself that u dont wanna use any more ,dnt give up on that . Im 12years clean .Anybody can do it.

Charles Littlewood

2y↑891

This song is a beautiful double entendre, which describes both how Ashcroft lost his father to cancer and how drugs didn’t help deal with that loss. Something many people in this world can relate to.

INTUITIVE SCORPIO CHIC

21w

@Rosebud 64that's a beautiful way of looking at it that way.🙏

FishyAttacks

21w

Spot on mate.... such a good description

Bobby Dazzler

23w

thought it was his mother? eithe way i know what u mean

diane gonzalez

23w

Absolutely well stated

LogoLab

27w

Dr Lorraine day has most of that answer. Watchful friends. Most people don't have all the truth. Jesus

17 More Replies...

Luciano Giraldi

2y↑2

Ogni volta che l'ascolto mi vengono i brividi!! Stupenda!

Alex Hindley

16w

Going through it now hard but worth it seen to much death u no who u are boys love ya

Stefie Allen

1y↑2

This will be the first song i learn on guitar, it speaks well for some of my family members 👍

LaLai

1y↑4

A 25 anos atrás eu me encontrava entre a vida e a morte por causa do vício em cocaína... sempre escutava essa música e pensava que um dia eu ia vencer ... hoje tenho 22 anos de sobriedade!

Sharnie

5y↑66

Me and my sister have "If heaven calls, I'm coming too" tattooed on us. This song means so much to us, it was even played at our dads funeral. Which was a year ago today. RIP Dad. We miss you.

Katie Hutchins

Omg I love this! I have “Say Hello 2 Heaven” Chris Cornell on my foot❤

Lu Lum

5y↑2

Sianzouu 😢😢😢

Muhammad Taufiqi

28w↑2

i just discovered this today, such a beautiful song

Alicia Alejandra Ruiz Formantel

48w↑5

Esperando cantarla en vivo nuevamente ojala pronto vuelva a Chile este grandioso artista 🇨🇱Richard Ashcroft 💓

JOE PUBLIC

31w↑2

Speaking from 19 years (and counting) of chronic crack and heroin addiction, let me tell you just how emotional I get every time I hear this song . Very haunting Lyrics

rachael chard

31w↑2

My mother's was a schizophrenic. I never realised the magnitude of her situation until l was older.. This track says everything.

leigh houston

2y↑748

Lost my dad at the age of 13 due to a heroin overdose, now mum is a herion user and alcoholic. Life can be tough. On the plus side I have a wife, a managers role, 5 kids and a dog.. but I still struggle with my mental health, but this song brings me out of my battle. Much love people, you got this x

Samantha Rowlands

23w

Keep going. Be strong 💪

Nathan Berry

41w

Hold on in there I'm proud you made a good life for yourself
I've been through hell myself and have made it in life never give up

Mason Crowley

44w↑1

I can imagine you struggle with mental health, that's horrible! I'm glad you find some happiness in your life.

Melanie Flerlage

45w↑1

I'm hoping your Mum found a better way in life and do hope you took care of your mental wellness. That addict devil lurks in the children of addicts, we tell ourselves it will never be me, then it comes for us. Hard and Fast. Your post got me in my feels today.

S J

48w↑1

Stay strong pal, you got a lot going for you.👍🏻

36 More Replies...

chiyerano

25w↑2

This song really suits my mood sometimes.

Jão

really cool song dudes keep it up
im proud of you guys

Martha Mikielewicz

50w↑3

My stepdad played this for me after a breakdown and its stuck with me I play it in memory of him and my nephew who died suddenly 💔

Rahul Dravid

2y↑14

Richard Ashcroft amazing lyricist. Thoroughly enjoyed his music.

Longi1974

2y↑394

One of the most poignantly beautiful songs ever written and performed.

Neil Mcgrory

19w↑1

Well said...

TadRaunch

22w

It really can have so many different meanings for whoever is listening to it. Even "the drugs don't work" can have a different meaning... for whom the drugs work, what the drugs are, etc.

Jonny

45w↑2

Hope is a great thing, this song helped me

Trina Dove

1y↑4

Stunning words. Thank You for describing this record in such a way I never could

Jadeyn

2y↑5

Yes 👌🏼

Craig Ward

41w↑2

Beautiful The Verve. I believe in the beautiful music of The Verve 💖💯

S Atkinson

1y↑2

All this talk of getting old, This song will NEVER get old! 🙏🕊️✨

October Bradshaw

18w↑3

1st time I’ve heard this song… Now a LIFETIME listener. Pray for me y’all please ❤

Katie Hutchins

Same (first time listener) you are in my prayers tonight my friend❤️ Let’s hang in there

Jarrod Elias

1y↑1

I haven't heard this song in years, yet I woke this morning with it in my head.
I played it and was brought to tears.
A friends brother took his life last week and my best friend attempted suicide.
I needed this 🙏✌💙

Hernán Alegre

3y↑543

This song deserves more attention and recognition. Such a masterpiece! Greetings from Argentina.

Gisela Mesquita

Sim, merece muito mais atenção e reconhecimento ...
para todos aqueles que já perderam alguém para este flagelo das drogas e por todos os outros que se perderam a eles próprios ...
Abraço de Portugal

Shirley

@lennie thomas you know I didn't know she was dead... thanks for mentioning.

lennie thomas

@Shirley Dead old Thatcher!

Shirley

@Oscar Casey Good old Thatcher

loyalist

2y↑1

@Darth Vader The British were first to land and claim in 1690 the end.

13 More Replies...

kelly blanchfield

28w↑1

I’ve fought addictions all my life, I remember lying in my bed next to my babies (33 &29 now) listening to t🍱🧁

Roey Peretz

1y↑5

25 years. Still the same truth. Monumental song

Hendo III

1y↑2

This song doesn't hit me more than it has done recently. Lost my dad this year and I think this song was his.

James Mchugh

8w↑1

My late brother loved this song passed away in 2018 listing to this in January 23 with tears in my eyes

ΜΑΝΟΣ ΣΑΒΒΙΔΗΣ

27w

Great band,great song,one of the best singers ever.-

sj7665

1y↑2

This is one song I play over and over when I’m down.

Katie Hutchins

I just found this song and I couldn’t agree more

viviansdaughter

1y↑1

Love this song!!

Gixerloon

1y↑2

I still find it hard to believe this was released in 1997, I wasn't particularly a fan back then, but 25 years later, I look back and wonder where did the time go... it makes me nostalgic for those days.

Jack Sawyer

2y↑2K

I'm seven months clean after almost four years of shooting heroin. My girlfriend of three years was unable to quit, and died of a heart infection three months ago. She was 23, with a 4 year old daughter. I remain clean, but struggle with suicidal ideation every single night and most days. However, I go off the street, and work a full time job. My music has been on the radio four weeks in a row, and I'm recording again. There is hope. You are more powerful than you can imagine.

Prajol Rajbhandari

15w↑1

Getcha pull Jack🤘🤘🤘

Vasso Koukounidou

15w↑1

@Jack Sawyer it’s a She😅.. good for you.. I’m glad ur hanging in there..

Jack Sawyer

15w↑2

@Vasso Koukounidou I'm making it brother. Staying clean, working as a video editor and visual effects designer for a small company, doing my best to stay out of trouble. . . Thanks for asking. All the best.

Vasso Koukounidou

15w↑1

I just read your post. A year later… how are you?

Elvira Korte

15w

My son died 18 years tomorrow 9 December my heart has never healed. My beautiful boy dead at 26. The Verve was his favourite band.

251 More Replies...

TheTesemeau

30w

Great lyrics, great tune, love to all the survivors x

Mauricio Manino Music

46w↑1

This is one of the best songs I ever heard. It is.. it is just... beautifully sad. This is music man.Thanks for this gift Richard Ashcroft and The Verve.

Load More Comments...

More Comments

just now