Don’t Assume What You Don’t Know

Grace VanderWaal's song 'Don’t Assume What You Don’t Know' is a poignant exploration of the illusions and misconceptions surrounding fame and fortune. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the journey many take in pursuit of success, only to find that the reality is far different from their expectations. The song opens with imagery of driving through the streets with eyes closed and tripping on a stick, symbolizing the blind pursuit of dreams without understanding the obstacles that lie ahead. The repeated refrain 'Don't assume what you don't know' serves as a cautionary reminder to not take things at face value.

The song delves into the superficial allure of wealth and status, as seen in lines like 'You wanna be rich with a lambo' and 'You act real hot, but you're still cold.' These lines highlight the emptiness that often accompanies the pursuit of materialistic goals. VanderWaal also touches on the false promises of the entertainment industry, where aspiring stars are lured with the idea of quick success, only to find themselves isolated and disillusioned. The line 'The television told you if you got up and went, within 5, 6 months you'd be playing Japan' underscores the unrealistic expectations set by media and society.

The narrative takes a personal turn as it describes the protagonist's journey to Hollywood, armed with little more than a high school degree and dreams of stardom. The harsh reality sets in when they are asked to sign away their creativity for a chance at fame, encapsulated in the line 'Just sign off your name and creativity, don't ya don't ya wanna be a star?' This moment captures the often exploitative nature of the industry, where individuality is sacrificed for commercial success. Ultimately, the song serves as a powerful commentary on the pitfalls of chasing fame and the importance of staying true to oneself.