Released: 2024
Lola Young’s “Messy” is a raw and honest track that delves into the complexities of identity and self-acceptance in the face of societal and personal expectations. The song explores the struggle of trying to fit into someone else’s idea of perfection while grappling with one’s own flaws and contradictions.
The opening lines set the stage with a sense of impatience and frustration. The singer is left waiting in the cold, literally and metaphorically, highlighting a recurring theme of being let down by others. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the singer expresses a desire to be heard and understood without judgment.
In the first verse, the singer addresses the criticism they face for their lifestyle choices, like smoking and not conforming to conventional beauty standards. The reference to “pulling a Britney” suggests moments of rebellion or breakdown, akin to Britney Spears’ public struggles. The singer questions who they are expected to be, revealing the pressure to conform to an ever-changing set of expectations.
The chorus is a powerful declaration of the singer’s internal conflict. They describe being “too messy” or “too clean,” highlighting the impossible standards they are held to. The line “I want to be me, is that not allowed?” is a poignant plea for acceptance of their true self, flaws and all. The repeated phrase “you hate the fucking lot” underscores the frustration of never being able to satisfy others.
In the second verse, the singer calls out the hypocrisy of their partner, who criticizes them while engaging in similar behaviors, like smoking weed. This verse further emphasizes the theme of double standards and the struggle for mutual understanding in relationships.
The repetition of the chorus reinforces the central message of the song: the struggle to be accepted for who you are, without having to change to meet someone else’s expectations. The singer’s repeated assertion that they could be “a thousand people” but still not be enough for their partner is a powerful commentary on the futility of trying to please everyone.
Overall, “Messy” is a candid exploration of self-identity and the challenges of navigating relationships where one feels constantly judged and misunderstood. Lola Young’s lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pressure to be someone they are not, making it a relatable anthem for self-acceptance.
