Better
Khalid
The Intoxicating Bliss of Connection in Khalid's 'Better'
Khalid's 'Better' is a smooth, sultry track that delves into the themes of clandestine romance and the euphoria of a secret connection. The song's lyrics paint a picture of two people who share an intimate bond that they keep hidden from the world. The repeated line 'Nothing feels better than this' serves as a testament to the intensity and exclusivity of their relationship, which is heightened by its privacy.
The lyrics 'I'm not really drunk, I never get that fucked up' suggest a clear-headedness in the midst of this relationship, emphasizing that the high the protagonist experiences is not from substances, but from the emotional and physical connection with their partner. The references to being 'sober' and feeling a natural high ('I got so high the other night, I swear to God, felt my feet lift the ground') underscore the idea that the joy and pleasure derived from this relationship are pure and deeply felt. The song captures the essence of being in a state of bliss that is so powerful, it's almost transcendental.
Khalid's style, characterized by his smooth vocal delivery and contemporary R&B beats, perfectly complements the song's theme. The laid-back yet pulsating rhythm mirrors the secretive and nocturnal nature of the relationship. The dance instructions towards the end of the song ('Now, left, right, left, right / Take it back, bring it side to side') add a playful element, suggesting that the relationship is not only intense but also fun and liberating. 'Better' encapsulates the feeling of finding something so good that it becomes your ultimate source of happiness, a feeling so profound that nothing else can compare.