Cheerleader

Ashnikko's 'Cheerleader' is a song that delves into the pressures of societal beauty standards and the toxic competitiveness that often accompanies the pursuit of perfection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is willing to endure physical pain and emotional turmoil to achieve an idealized image, as seen in the lines 'Game face on, hit the pose like perfect' and 'Stitch me up, send me back out to dance.' The song's protagonist is depicted as someone who is driven by a desire for love and acceptance, to the point of questioning 'Who do I have to kill to make everybody love me?' This line suggests a willingness to go to extreme lengths for validation, highlighting the destructive nature of seeking external approval.

The chorus of 'Cheerleader' uses the term as a metaphor for the quintessential image of popularity and beauty. However, Ashnikko subverts this image by pairing it with aggressive language and imagery, such as 'Tell me how my ass tastes, little bottom feeder' and 'Honey, I'm the lead role, you don't even feature.' These lines exude confidence and a dismissive attitude towards those who hate or envy the protagonist for their beauty. The repeated chant 'B-R-I-N-G I-T O-N, bring it on, bitch' reinforces the confrontational tone, suggesting a challenge to the status quo and a refusal to be undermined by others' negativity.

The song also touches on the artificiality and self-destructive behaviors that can be involved in maintaining an image of perfection, with references to 'Cup of Drano, lips turn blue' and 'Filler, snip and glue.' Ashnikko's lyrics critique the extreme measures people may take to conform to beauty standards, likening the protagonist to 'a swarm of bees / Wrapped in a skin suit, perfect teeth,' which implies a loss of individuality and humanity in the process. 'Cheerleader' is a powerful commentary on the dark side of beauty and popularity, wrapped in a catchy, defiant anthem that challenges listeners to consider the cost of societal expectations.