Love Us Again
Joji
The Haunting Melancholy of Joji's 'Love Us Again'
Joji's 'Love Us Again' is a poignant exploration of self-doubt and the complexities of relationships. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and the struggle to maintain a connection with someone who may not fully appreciate the effort. The opening lines, 'So pretty / Unconventionally pretty, yeah,' suggest an admiration for someone's unique beauty, while also hinting at the singer's own feelings of inadequacy. Joji's gentle, introspective vocal delivery enhances the song's intimate and confessional tone.
The repeated phrase 'Either way, either way, either way, either way / You would've been fine' implies a resignation to the idea that the other person would be okay without the singer's presence. This sentiment is echoed in the lines 'Please survive, live your life / Mine are wet, yours are dry,' which contrast the emotional states of the two individuals. The song's chorus, with its repetition of 'Can you say, can you say, can you say, can you say / I'm not the right type,' underscores the theme of not feeling good enough and the fear of rejection.
Culturally, Joji is known for his lo-fi and melancholic music style, often addressing themes of love, loss, and existential angst. 'Love Us Again' fits within this framework, offering listeners a raw and honest reflection on the pain of unrequited love or a love that is fading. The song's minimalist production allows the emotional weight of the lyrics to take center stage, inviting listeners to connect with the vulnerability and introspection that Joji is known for.