Listen Up (Radio Edit)
SOLOMON
The Heartbreak Anthem: Navigating Love and Self-Sabotage
SOLOMON's song "Listen Up (Radio Edit)" delves into the complexities of love and self-awareness. The lyrics reveal a protagonist who is acutely aware of their emotional limitations and the potential harm they could cause in a relationship. From the outset, the singer warns their partner not to fall in love, acknowledging that they cannot provide everything the partner needs. This repeated warning underscores a sense of guilt and responsibility, as the singer tries to protect their partner from inevitable heartbreak.
The metaphor of feeling like a "broke-broken record" highlights the repetitive nature of the singer's emotional struggles. They recognize that their past issues are not something their partner can fix, emphasizing a preference for solitude due to a heart that has "turned to stone." Despite this, the singer admits to moments of warmth and connection, creating a push-pull dynamic that is both confusing and painful for their partner. This duality is further illustrated by the line, "I've been burnt to third degree," suggesting deep emotional scars that cause the singer to oscillate between affection and withdrawal.
The song also touches on the theme of self-sabotage. The singer's behavior—blowing hot and cold, gassing up their partner only to backtrack—reveals a pattern of toxic interactions. This erratic behavior is acknowledged as a source of frustration and confusion for their partner, who is driven "crazy" by the inconsistency. Through these lyrics, SOLOMON paints a vivid picture of a troubled soul grappling with the desire for love and the fear of vulnerability, making "Listen Up" a poignant exploration of the human condition.