To Be Young (feat. Doja Cat)

Anne-Marie's song "To Be Young (feat. Doja Cat)" captures the essence of youthful exuberance and the chaotic beauty of growing up. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the carefree and reckless nature of youth, where making plans for the future seems less important than living in the moment. The imagery of driving at "hundred miles an hour no headlights" on an open road symbolizes the thrill and unpredictability of young life, where the journey is more significant than the destination.

The song delves into the ways young people cope with the pains and uncertainties of life. Lines like "We do what we can to dull the pain" and "Pinky promise things will stay the same" reflect a desire to hold onto fleeting moments of happiness and camaraderie. The recurring theme of dyeing hair and dreaming of making a billion dollars signifies the endless possibilities and dreams that characterize youth, even if they seem far-fetched or unattainable.

The chorus, with its candid admission of falling in love, breaking hearts, and breaking rules, encapsulates the messy, yet exhilarating, experience of being young. The repeated phrase "We're all a mess, but I guess this is what it feels like to be young" acknowledges the imperfections and mistakes that come with youth, but also celebrates the resilience and freedom that define this stage of life. Doja Cat's verse adds another layer, touching on the desire for freedom and the struggle to find genuine connections in a world that often feels superficial.

Ultimately, "To Be Young" is an anthem for anyone who has ever felt the highs and lows of growing up. It embraces the chaos, the mistakes, and the dreams that make youth such a unique and transformative period in life.