Backseat Rider

Sara Kays' song "Backseat Rider" poignantly captures the bittersweet evolution of a close friendship. The narrative begins with a nostalgic recollection of meeting a friend at a bus stop and sharing conversations during their rides together. This initial connection is marked by a sense of equality and mutual enjoyment, symbolized by sitting side-by-side in the third seat from the back. The lyrics evoke a sense of innocence and simplicity, highlighting the deep bond formed during these early years.

As the song progresses, the dynamics of the friendship shift dramatically. The friend buys their first car, a milestone that should have been a shared celebration. However, the protagonist finds themselves relegated to the backseat, both literally and metaphorically. The presence of a new person in the passenger seat signifies a change in priorities and the introduction of distance in the once-close relationship. The protagonist's silent observation from the backseat, while their friend engages with someone else, underscores feelings of exclusion and nostalgia for the past.

The song's emotional core lies in the realization that the friendship has changed irreversibly. The protagonist reflects on their own possible role in this shift, acknowledging a summer spent apart and missed calls. Despite these self-reflections, the pain of being replaced and the longing for the old days remain palpable. The repeated imagery of sitting in the backseat serves as a powerful metaphor for feeling sidelined and the inevitable changes that come with growing up. Sara Kays masterfully conveys the complexities of friendship, change, and the passage of time through her heartfelt lyrics and evocative storytelling.