FRIENDS (feat. Marshmello)

Anne-Marie's song 'FRIENDS', featuring Marshmello, serves as a vibrant and emphatic declaration of platonic boundaries. The lyrics revolve around the singer's frustration with a friend who has unreciprocated romantic feelings for her. Throughout the song, Anne-Marie insists on the strictly platonic nature of their relationship, emphasizing that despite the other person's feelings, they are nothing more than friends. This message is repeated with the help of a catchy spelling out of the word 'FRIENDS', making the song both memorable and clear in its intentions.

The song captures the tension that arises when one person's feelings in a friendship do not align with the other's. Anne-Marie expresses her irritation and exhaustion at having to repeatedly clarify her feelings. The lyrics 'You say you love me, I say you crazy' and 'You're not my lover, more like a brother' highlight the disparity in their perceptions and the discomfort it brings. The repeated rejections and the firm tone suggest a final effort to set the record straight, hoping to preserve the friendship without further misunderstandings.

Culturally, 'FRIENDS' taps into a common social scenario where lines between romantic and platonic feelings can blur, leading to awkward or challenging situations. Anne-Marie's straightforward and somewhat blunt approach in the song resonates with listeners who might find themselves in similar circumstances. It champions the idea of clear communication and respecting personal boundaries in friendships, making it a relatable anthem for those navigating similar dynamics.