Free Them (feat. Teddy Swims)

“Free Them (feat. Teddy Swims)” by One Ok Rock is a powerful anthem about the struggle to express one's true emotions and the desire to be understood. The song opens with the artist reflecting on the ridicule and disbelief they face from others regarding their music and feelings. This skepticism from others has led to a buildup of unexpressed emotions, creating a 'crowd of emotions' in their mind that they desperately want to release. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and longing for validation, as the artist feels that their inner world is not being acknowledged or valued by those around them.

The chorus, with its repeated plea to 'free them' and 'let them fly,' symbolizes the artist's yearning to liberate these pent-up emotions. This desire for emotional freedom is a universal theme, resonating with anyone who has ever felt misunderstood or constrained by societal expectations. The metaphor of emotions as a crowd that needs to be let out highlights the intensity and complexity of the artist's inner life. The collaboration with Teddy Swims adds a layer of soulful depth to the song, emphasizing the emotional weight of the message.

In the second verse, the artist describes the relentless pace of their life, which has prevented them from truly listening to themselves. The imagery of 'running so hard' and 'just the drums in my heart' suggests a life driven by external pressures and internal turmoil. The artist's plea to 'leave myself open' and 'let them all out' is a call for vulnerability and authenticity. This moment of introspection and the subsequent release of emotions is portrayed as a cathartic and necessary step towards self-acceptance and personal growth. The song ultimately serves as an empowering reminder of the importance of emotional honesty and the courage it takes to be true to oneself.