​lock / unlock (feat. benny blanco & Nile Rodgers)

The song "lock / unlock" by j-hope, featuring benny blanco and Nile Rodgers, is a rhythmic exploration of the dynamics of a relationship. The repetitive use of the words 'lock' and 'unlock' serves as a metaphor for the emotional barriers and openness that characterize intimate connections. The lyrics suggest a push and pull between two people, where locking represents a protective or reserved action, and unlocking symbolizes vulnerability and the willingness to share one's true self. The song's message is about finding balance and harmony within a relationship by knowing when to guard oneself and when to open up.

The collaboration with benny blanco and Nile Rodgers adds a layer of depth to the song, blending j-hope's style with their musical influences. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy hook contrast with the more profound implications of the lyrics, creating a danceable track that also invites reflection on personal relationships. The phrase 'out of control' implies that love and connection can be unpredictable and wild, yet the song embraces this chaos as something 'special.'

The song's structure, with its alternating 'lock' and 'unlock' choruses, reinforces the theme of cycles in relationships. It suggests that love is not static but rather a series of actions and reactions, of giving and taking, and of setting boundaries and breaking them down. j-hope's artistry in this track lies in his ability to turn these complex emotional processes into a simple, yet powerful, musical motif.