Classic
MKTO
A Timeless Love in a Plastic World: Unpacking MKTO's 'Classic'
MKTO's 'Classic' is a vibrant homage to timeless beauty and old-school romance in an era dominated by fleeting trends and superficiality. The song, performed by the American pop duo, celebrates a love interest who stands out from the contemporary crowd, likened to a rare diamond among the commonplace. The lyrics are filled with references to iconic figures and moments from past decades, suggesting a nostalgic yearning for the elegance and authenticity of bygone eras.
The chorus of 'Classic' encapsulates the central theme of the song: the protagonist feels out of place in the modern world, longing for a time that valued genuine charm and romance. The repeated line 'Baby, you're so classic' serves as both a compliment to the love interest and a critique of the current 'plastic' society. The use of the word 'plastic' implies artificiality and disposability, contrasting sharply with the enduring nature of 'classic' beauty and love.
The song's bridge further emphasizes this contrast by listing icons from different decades, from the 1940s to the 2000s, each representing a pinnacle of style and grace. By invoking the names of Audrey Hepburn, Beyoncé, Marilyn Monroe, and Jean Harlow (referred to as 'Massey' in the lyrics, likely a misheard reference), the song connects the love interest to a lineage of timeless elegance. The musical references to Michael Jackson, Prince, and Marvin Gaye also serve to align the song's sentiment with the passionate and soulful love songs of the past. 'Classic' is a celebration of anachronistic values and the allure of a love that transcends the superficiality of the present.