Black Mascara

RAYE's song 'Black Mascara' delves deep into the emotional aftermath of a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of heartbreak and betrayal, using powerful imagery to convey the singer's pain. The recurring motif of black mascara running down her face symbolizes the tears and emotional distress caused by her partner's actions. This visual representation of her suffering is further emphasized by the mention of her eyeliner blending into the dark circles under her eyes, highlighting the physical toll of her emotional turmoil.

The chorus repeatedly questions, 'What you done to me?' and 'You're done to me,' underscoring the singer's struggle to comprehend the extent of the damage inflicted upon her. The repetition of these lines serves to emphasize her feelings of betrayal and confusion. The lyrics also touch on themes of deceit and manipulation, as the singer accuses her partner of lying and 'fucking her mind up.' This raw and unfiltered language captures the intensity of her emotions and the depth of her hurt.

In the latter part of the song, RAYE introduces a more introspective tone, reflecting on her attempts to numb the pain through alcohol and other distractions. The imagery of 'clouds up high' and 'stars on the ceiling of the Royce' juxtaposes the external appearance of luxury and success with the internal reality of heartbreak and despair. This contrast highlights the complexity of her emotions and the difficulty of moving on from such a profound betrayal. Ultimately, 'Black Mascara' is a poignant exploration of the emotional scars left by a broken relationship, capturing the raw and unfiltered pain of heartbreak.