Sober

About this song

The song was written about a friend of the band who was only creative while under the influence. It became Tool's first real breakthrough in the mid-1990s, getting heavy airplay on radio and MTV as the lead single from Undertow. Many of its lyrics were adapted from the song "Burn About Out" by C.A.D., one of Maynard James Keenan's former bands. The music video is known for its clay figures and stop-motion animation.

What it's about

The song focuses on a friend who only seems able to create when intoxicated.

Fun facts

• Sampled in 6 other songs, like “Tootled by Orbital”.
• Covered 4 times, including “Sober by 8-Bit Arcade”.
• Written by Danny Carey, Adam Jones, Maynard James Keenan and Paul D’Amour.
• Produced by Tool and Sylvia Massy.
• Recorded at Grand Master Studios.