La Cienega (feat. Joji & Niki)

88rising's song 'La Cienega,' featuring Joji and Niki, delves into the often harsh realities behind the glitz and glamour of fame. The opening lines, 'Empty bottles on the floor / Party's over, thank the Lord,' set a somber tone, suggesting a sense of relief that the superficial festivities have ended. The imagery of shrinking walls and the quiet that follows indicates a moment of introspection and solitude, where the protagonist is left alone with their thoughts, questioning the value and impact of their lifestyle.

The chorus, 'Glitz and glamour on cam / Singin' in La La Land / Accidentally made a name,' highlights the accidental nature of their rise to fame. The reference to 'La La Land'—a colloquial term for Los Angeles, the epicenter of the entertainment industry—emphasizes the superficiality and performative aspects of their success. The metaphor of being a 'pawn on every chessboard' further underscores the feeling of being used and manipulated by the industry, only to be discarded when no longer useful. The line 'Smile when they yell checkmate' suggests a forced acceptance of this reality, masking their true feelings with a facade of contentment.

The recurring theme of loneliness is evident in the lines, 'Lately, I've been on my own / I knew you having fun with me.' Despite being surrounded by people and the trappings of fame, the protagonist feels isolated and disconnected. The repeated question, 'When will I see you,' reflects a longing for genuine connection and a sense of belonging that seems elusive in their current environment. The song poignantly captures the dichotomy between public adulation and private despair, offering a candid look at the emotional toll of living in the spotlight.