Where U Are

Rina Sawayama's song 'Where U Are' delves into the complex emotions of longing, disconnection, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion. The lyrics express a deep yearning to be close to someone, a desire that is palpable in the repeated line, 'I wanna be where you are.' This longing is intensified by the realization that the connection may have been lost or was never real to begin with. The singer questions whether they have stayed away too long and if they have been forgotten, highlighting the anxiety and self-doubt that often accompany feelings of separation.

The song also explores the theme of projection and the idea of creating an idealized version of someone in one's mind. The lines 'The only time I see you these days is in my projections' and 'Now I'm losing sight of who I'm meant to be in this reality' suggest that the singer is grappling with the difference between their imagined relationship and the harsh truth of their actual circumstances. This creates a sense of disorientation and confusion, as the singer struggles to reconcile their fantasies with reality.

Additionally, 'Where U Are' touches on the pain of unrequited love and the realization that the person they long for may never have been real in the way they imagined. The repeated phrase 'You were never real' serves as a poignant reminder of the singer's disillusionment and the emotional toll of holding onto a love that was never reciprocated. This theme is further emphasized by the line 'Funny how together we're alone,' which captures the paradox of feeling isolated even when in the presence of the one they love.

Rina Sawayama's musical style, which often blends pop with elements of R&B and electronic music, adds an additional layer of depth to the song. The production, with its ethereal and haunting quality, mirrors the emotional complexity of the lyrics, making 'Where U Are' a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the struggle to find one's place in a world of shifting realities.