Saddest Vanilla (feat. Jess Glynne)

Emeli Sandé's song "Saddest Vanilla (feat. Jess Glynne)" is a poignant exploration of heartbreak and disillusionment. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship filled with contradictions and emotional turmoil. The metaphor of 'saddest vanilla' is particularly striking, as vanilla is often considered a simple, comforting flavor. Here, it represents something that was once sweet and enjoyable but has now become a symbol of sadness and loss. The ice cream parlour setting further emphasizes the contrast between the expected joy and the unexpected sorrow.

The song delves into the complexities of a relationship where promises are broken, and expectations are shattered. Lines like "You're giving me right, you're giving me wrong" and "You tease me with heaven, you're giving me hell" highlight the emotional rollercoaster the protagonist experiences. The use of gambling imagery, such as "You taught me to gamble, and told me we'd win," underscores the risk and vulnerability involved in love. The repeated references to freezing and tears filling a bowl evoke a sense of coldness and isolation, amplifying the theme of loneliness.

Emeli Sandé and Jess Glynne's collaboration brings a powerful vocal performance that enhances the emotional depth of the lyrics. The song's structure, with its recurring chorus, reinforces the feeling of being stuck in a cycle of pain and disappointment. The raw honesty in the lyrics, combined with the evocative imagery, makes "Saddest Vanilla" a relatable and moving portrayal of heartache. It captures the essence of how something once cherished can become a painful reminder of what was lost, leaving the listener with a lingering sense of melancholy.