Crush On You
Roxette
The Dizzying Whirlwind of Infatuation in 'Crush On You' by Roxette
Roxette's 'Crush On You' is a vibrant and chaotic portrayal of the disorienting effects of infatuation. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a person whose life has been turned upside down by a powerful crush. The opening lines, 'I'm a zombie in the moonlight, I'm sleepin' when it's daylight,' suggest a state of confusion and disarray, as if the normal rhythms of life have been disrupted by the overwhelming feelings of attraction. This sense of disorientation is further emphasized by the humorous and surreal imagery throughout the song, such as 'My dog's an alligator' and 'Got dead flies in my scotch with ice,' which highlight the topsy-turvy world the protagonist finds themselves in.
The song also delves into the theme of identity and perception. The line 'It's hard to tell his gender' reflects the fluidity and ambiguity that can accompany intense emotions, where the usual boundaries and distinctions become blurred. This is mirrored in the protagonist's actions, like 'rentin' the wrong movie' and 'drivin' on the wrong side,' which symbolize the loss of control and the irrational behavior that often accompanies a deep crush. The repeated refrain 'I got a crush got a crush on you' serves as a mantra, reinforcing the central theme of the song and the inescapable nature of the protagonist's feelings.
Roxette's musical style, characterized by catchy melodies and energetic rhythms, complements the lyrical content perfectly. The upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation create a sense of urgency and excitement, mirroring the protagonist's emotional state. The song's bridge, with lines like 'No middle in the centre, No colours in the printer,' underscores the sense of incompleteness and longing that comes with unrequited love. Ultimately, 'Crush On You' captures the exhilarating yet bewildering experience of having a crush, blending humor, surrealism, and heartfelt emotion into a memorable pop anthem.