My Friend The Devil
Audra Mae
Dancing with Darkness: The Tale of 'My Friend The Devil'
Audra Mae's song 'My Friend The Devil' delves into the complex relationship between the protagonist and their darker impulses, personified as the devil. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life lived on the edge, where the devil is not just a metaphor for evil but a constant companion and confidant. The song opens with a chilling narrative of a murder in Vegas, setting the tone for a story of rebellion and defiance. The protagonist's disregard for the consequences of their actions is evident, highlighting a life where traditional moral boundaries are blurred or entirely absent.
The chorus, 'Heaven don't make me smile, I've been sitting with the best of them since you's a baby child,' suggests a deep-seated disillusionment with conventional notions of goodness and redemption. Instead, the protagonist finds solace and camaraderie in their darker side, which has been a 'good friend' throughout their life. This relationship with the devil is not one of fear or regret but of acceptance and even affection, indicating a profound internal conflict and a rejection of societal norms.
The song also touches on themes of childhood rebellion and the struggle against authority. The protagonist's wild nature and the futile attempts by their mother to control them underscore a lifelong resistance to being tamed or confined. The repeated lines, 'You can't make me, never make me, like to see you make me go,' reinforce this defiance, suggesting an unyielding spirit that refuses to conform. Audra Mae's raw and emotive delivery adds depth to the narrative, making 'My Friend The Devil' a haunting exploration of the human psyche's darker corners.