Pretty Boy (feat. Lil Yatchy)
Joji
The Facade of Glamour: Joji's 'Pretty Boy'
Joji's 'Pretty Boy' featuring Lil Yachty is a poignant exploration of the dichotomy between outward appearances and inner turmoil. The song delves into the life of someone who seems to have it all - the looks, the lifestyle, and the allure of the West Side. Yet, despite the glitz and glamour, there's a haunting sense of loneliness and emotional suppression that the protagonist cannot escape. The repeated line 'I'm a pretty boy living on the West Side' serves as a mantra that both celebrates and mocks the superficiality of his life.
The lyrics 'Livin' so loud, you could never hear me cry at night' and 'See no tears run down my eyes' suggest that the character's extravagant lifestyle is a facade to mask his pain. The use of 'blue pills' and 'finest wine' implies a reliance on substances to numb the feelings of fear and lies that plague him. The hills, which are a recurring motif in the song, symbolize both the physical location of affluence and a metaphorical high point that the character strives to maintain to keep up appearances.
Joji's portrayal of the 'pretty boy' character is a commentary on the pressures of maintaining an image of perfection in the age of social media and celebrity culture. The song touches on themes of identity, the pursuit of happiness, and the cost of living a life that prioritizes appearance over authenticity. The collaboration with Lil Yachty adds a layer of irony, as both artists are known for their unique styles that often go against the grain of traditional expectations in the music industry.