Released: 2020
Ava Max’s “Kings & Queens” is an empowering anthem celebrating female strength and independence. The song envisions a world where women, symbolized as queens, are celebrated and acknowledged for their power and resilience, even when they stand alone. It’s a call to recognize the strength of women who don’t need saving and can hold their own in a world dominated by kings.
The opening lines set the stage for a royal metaphor, where kings and queens are on equal footing. “If all of the kings had their queens on the throne, we would pop champagne and raise a toast” suggests a celebration of equality and partnership. However, the song quickly shifts focus to the queens “fighting alone,” highlighting the reality that many women are strong and independent, even without a king by their side.
The verse “Can’t live without me, you wanna, but you can’t, nah-nah-nah” speaks to the idea that women are indispensable and can’t be easily dismissed. Ava Max asserts that a real queen doesn’t need to be saved, “No damsel in distress, don’t need to save me,” and emphasizes her inner strength with “Once I start breathing fire, you can’t tame me.” This is a clear message that women are powerful and self-sufficient.
The chorus reinforces the theme of celebration and recognition of these independent queens. “To all of the queens who are fighting alone, baby, you’re not dancin’ on your own” is a reassurance that even when standing alone, women are never truly alone in their struggle for recognition and respect.
The bridge cleverly uses a chess metaphor: “In chess, the king can move one space at a time, but queens are free to go wherever they like.” This line underscores the versatility and power of women, suggesting that while men may have their limitations, women have the freedom and ability to navigate the world in their own way.
Overall, “Kings & Queens” is a celebration of female empowerment, encouraging women to embrace their strength and independence. It’s a call to action for women to recognize their worth and for society to celebrate their contributions, whether they have a king by their side or not.
