say it first

ROLE MODEL's song 'say it first' delves into the complexities of expressing love and the vulnerability that comes with it. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who has always been hesitant to speak their mind, often biting their tongue until it bleeds. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative about the fear of rejection and the longing for mutual feelings to be confirmed. The protagonist is caught in a cycle of wanting to express their emotions but being paralyzed by the fear that the other person might not feel the same way.

The song captures the tension between two people who are both afraid to be the first to say 'I love you.' The lines 'I wanna say you feel the same / I hesitate 'cause I'm afraid you don't' highlight this internal struggle. The protagonist wishes they could get inside the other person's head to know their true feelings, reflecting a universal desire for certainty in romantic relationships. The repeated refrain 'You say it first' underscores the hope that the other person will take the first step, making it easier for the protagonist to reciprocate.

ROLE MODEL uses everyday scenarios like saying it in the shower, when drunk, or while the other person is putting on makeup to illustrate how these unspoken words permeate every aspect of their life. The mention of popping champagne and ripping off the band-aid suggests that sometimes, it takes a bit of courage (or liquid courage) to break the silence. The song beautifully captures the delicate dance of love, where both parties are waiting for the other to make the first move, encapsulating the fear, excitement, and vulnerability that come with it.