From the recording Out of the Shadows
"I’m Gonna Change" is one of the most powerful and personal songs on Out of the Shadows. Written during a period of deep reckoning, Shannon Smith uses this track to confront his past mistakes and make an unshakable promise of transformation.
With poignant strings, layered harmonies, and heartfelt lyrics, the song captures the raw vulnerability of hitting rock bottom and the resilience needed to rise again. It’s an emotional centerpiece of the album, offering listeners a deeply human story of redemption and the hope that comes from owning your truth.
Written by: Shannon Smith, Helen Townsend
Recorded at: Sundown Studios / Rada Studios
Produced by: Shannon Smith, Helen Townsend, Phil Richardson,
Ben Franz & Elliott Smith
Mastered by: George Georgiadis - Little Wing Studios
Vocals: Shannon Smith
Bass: Ben Franz (The Waifs)
Piano: Phil Richardson
Elec Guitar: Dan Carroll (The Southern River Band)
Drums: Elliott Smith
Strings Arrangement: Sophie Curtis
Cello: Sophie Curtis
Violin: Pascale Whiting
Lyrics
Verse 1
I’ve been hiding, I’ve been lying
To myself, for so long
She’s been crying, She’s been trying
To forgive, For too long
Pre-Chorus
I know when I have done it
And I’m not sure what it is
That makes me change my own inspection
Trying to change reality
But I’m gonna change
Verse 2
I am trying, I am dying
In myself, When I’ve done wrong
She’s been grieving, What she believed in
Was gone….
Pre-Chorus
I lead you down the road
Of lies and make believe
And the trust I want so deeply
Has gone there’s only grief
It’s a fantasy believing
There’s no bumps along the road
And I am missing something real
Trying to paint a fairy tale
Chorus
But I’m gonna change
I’m gonna change
My ways
Ahh ahhh
I’m gonna change
I’m gonna change
My ways…
My ways.....
Instrumental
Chorus
I’m gonna change
I’m gonna change
My ways
Ahh ahhh
I’m gonna change
I’m gonna change
My ways...
My ways...
Im gonna change
Im gonna change
Im gonna change.....