Introduction
“We Wait and We Wonder” is a song by Phil Collins from his 1996 album Dance into the Light. The track was also released as part of the album’s promotional efforts, and its official music video further contributed to its visibility. While not one of Collins’ biggest commercial hits, “We Wait and We Wonder” stands as an example of his continued musical evolution during the mid-’90s.
In contrast to some of Collins’ earlier, more commercially dominant tracks, “We Wait and We Wonder” is introspective and mellow in tone. The song explores themes of longing, uncertainty, and existential reflection, as it delves into the emotional states of waiting for change and contemplating the future. The lyrics speak to the human experience of wondering about life’s direction and what lies ahead, all while acknowledging the tension between hope and doubt. The tone of the song fits with the overall feel of the Dance into the Light album, which was marked by a more personal and reflective approach to songwriting.
The official music video for “We Wait and We Wonder” features Collins performing the song against a minimalistic backdrop, allowing the emotional depth of the song’s lyrics and the mood of the music to take center stage. As with many of Collins’ videos, the imagery serves to enhance the emotional resonance of the song, subtly underscoring its themes of solitude and contemplation.
“We Wait and We Wonder” was not one of the most commercially successful singles from Dance into the Light, but it remains a fan favorite for those who appreciate Collins’ more introspective and thoughtful work.