Released: 2018
“Shallow” by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper is a deep dive into the search for meaning and connection in a world that often feels superficial. The song captures the yearning for something more substantial and the fear of facing one’s own vulnerabilities. It’s a back-and-forth conversation between two souls looking for depth beyond the surface.
The song kicks off with Bradley Cooper’s character asking a poignant question: “Tell me something, girl, are you happy in this modern world?” This line sets the stage for a reflection on whether the superficial pleasures of the modern world are enough or if there’s a deeper need for fulfillment. The mention of “falling” suggests a vulnerability and a desire for change, even in good times, while the bad times bring fear of self-doubt.
Lady Gaga’s verse mirrors this sentiment, flipping the script with “Tell me something, boy, aren’t you tired trying to fill that void?” This line suggests a shared struggle between the two characters, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining a “hardcore” facade. The repetition of “falling” reinforces the theme of vulnerability and the longing for transformation.
The chorus, “I’m off the deep end, watch as I dive in,” symbolizes taking a risk and diving into the unknown, leaving the “shallow” behind. The idea of crashing through the surface to a place “where they can’t hurt us” suggests finding safety and authenticity away from superficial judgments. The repetition of “sha-ha, sha-ha-llow” serves as a haunting reminder of the shallow world they are escaping.
The song’s bridge, filled with emotive “ha-ah-ah” sounds, adds an intense emotional layer, capturing the raw, unspoken feelings of the characters. As the chorus repeats, the imagery of diving deep and never meeting the ground emphasizes the freedom and liberation found in embracing one’s true self, far from the shallow concerns of the world.
