All Time Low
Jon Bellion
The Descent into Heartbreak: Jon Bellion's 'All Time Low'
Jon Bellion's 'All Time Low' is a poignant exploration of heartbreak and the struggle to regain self-esteem after a relationship's end. The song's protagonist compares himself to a knight in shining armor from a movie, suggesting that he once saw himself as a hero in the context of his relationship. However, the imagery quickly shifts to that of a ghost, indicating a sense of invisibility and neglect post-breakup, as his attempts to reach out to his former lover are ignored.
The chorus of the song is a raw admission of the protagonist's emotional state, with the repetition of 'low' emphasizing the depth of his despair. The phrase 'trying to fix my pride' suggests an internal battle to restore his dignity and self-worth, but he admits that his efforts are futile. The candidness of the lyrics, including a reference to masturbation, underscores the loneliness and frustration that accompany the loss of intimacy and connection.
Bellion's reference to 'three stacks on that CD,' alludes to André 3000 of OutKast, known for the album 'Speakerboxxx/The Love Below.' This comparison to a 'prototype' or 'perfect candidate' highlights the protagonist's fall from an idealized version of himself to one that is now rejected and unable to focus. The song's catchy melody contrasts with its somber themes, creating a dynamic and relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced the lows of a breakup.