Numb (Linkin Park song)

"Numb" is a song by the American rock band Linkin Park. It was released as the third single from their second studio album, Meteora (2003). "Numb" is one of Linkin Park's most well-known and commercially successful songs, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart for 12 weeks.

The song's lyrics address themes of feeling trapped by expectations, struggling with identity, and feeling emotionally disconnected. The lyrics speak to a sense of being overwhelmed by external pressures and the desire to break free from them. Musically, "Numb" features a blend of rock, electronic, and hip-hop elements, characteristic of Linkin Park's nu-metal style. The song is built around a prominent piano melody and features Chester Bennington's signature vocals, shifting between softer, more melodic verses and more aggressive, emotionally charged choruses.

"Numb" was a critical and commercial success, contributing significantly to the popularity of Meteora. It has been certified Diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), signifying over 10 million units sold. The song continues to be a popular and enduring track, often cited as one of Linkin Park's signature songs and a defining song of the early 2000s alternative rock scene. A mashup version of the song, titled "Numb/Encore," featuring rapper Jay-Z, was released as part of the Collision Course collaborative album and won a Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration.