"How to Save a Life" is a song by the American alternative rock band The Fray, released as the second single from their debut studio album of the same name in March 2006
. The song became one of the band's most popular tracks, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and becoming their highest-charting song
. It also tied for the seventh longest-charting single on the Billboard Hot 100, remaining for 58 consecutive weeks, and has been certified quintuple platinum by the RIAA, with 4.7 million downloads sold as of January 2015, making it one of the best-selling rock songs in digital history
. Lyrically, "How to Save a Life" deals with the emotional struggle of a person trying to help a troubled friend. The inspiration for the song came from lead singer Isaac Slade's experience mentoring a teenager with drug problems at a group home in Denver called Shelterwood. The song reflects the challenges and heartbreak involved in trying to save someone from self- destructive behavior and the consequences of strained relationships
. The song's lyrics describe a conversation where the narrator attempts to reach out and help, but ultimately wonders where things went wrong and laments the loss of a friend. It conveys themes of regret, helplessness, and the desire to make a difference in someone's life
. In summary, "How to Save a Life" is a deeply emotional song inspired by real-life experiences of trying to help a friend in crisis, and it became a major hit for The Fray, resonating with many listeners worldwide
