Heart Attack (Rock Version)

Demi Lovato's 'Heart Attack (Rock Version)' delves into the intense emotions and fears associated with falling in love. The song's protagonist is deeply afraid of vulnerability, which is evident from the opening lines where they mention putting their defenses up to avoid falling in love. This fear is so overwhelming that the mere thought of falling in love feels like it could cause a 'heart attack.' The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is used to being in control and not letting their guard down, but finds themselves completely disarmed by a particular person.

Throughout the song, Lovato contrasts the protagonist's usual confidence with their nervousness around this special person. Lines like 'Never had trouble getting what I want' and 'I can play 'em like a Ken doll' show a person who is typically self-assured and in control. However, this changes when they are around the person they have feelings for, making them 'act like a girl,' painting nails and wearing high heels, which signifies a departure from their usual self. This dichotomy highlights the internal struggle between maintaining a facade of indifference and the genuine, overwhelming emotions they feel.

The song also uses vivid metaphors to describe the physical and emotional toll of these feelings. The protagonist feels like they are 'flying too close to the Sun' and 'burst into flames,' which is a reference to the Greek myth of Icarus, symbolizing the dangers of getting too close to something powerful and potentially destructive. The repeated refrain of 'I think I'd have a heart attack' underscores the intensity of these emotions, suggesting that the fear of vulnerability and the potential for heartbreak are almost too much to bear. Lovato's powerful vocals and the rock instrumentation amplify the song's emotional weight, making it a compelling exploration of the complexities of love and fear.