Back 2 U (feat. Walk the Moon and Boehm)

Steve Aoki's 'Back 2 U,' featuring Walk the Moon and Boehm, is a compelling narrative of self-discovery and the quest for personal freedom. The song opens with the imagery of a child walking with giants, symbolizing the awe and wonder of youth. This metaphor sets the stage for a journey filled with extraordinary experiences and challenges. The protagonist takes the 'high road,' suggesting a path of integrity and ambition, but also one that leads to the brink of going 'too far.' This line captures the tension between aspiration and the risk of overreaching, a common theme in the pursuit of dreams.

The chorus reveals a sense of liberation and the bittersweet reality of leaving loved ones behind. The protagonist is 'running like you set me free out in the wild,' indicating a newfound freedom but also a separation from those who care about them. The line 'I know you want me to come home but it might take a while' underscores the emotional conflict between the desire for independence and the pull of home. The imagery of having 'my heart in my hands while my head's up in the clouds' beautifully encapsulates the duality of being grounded in love yet lost in ambition.

As the song progresses, the protagonist faces various trials, symbolized by 'lions' and 'battles,' which leave them with 'scars.' These experiences are part of the journey, shaping their courage and resilience. The recurring line 'only heaven knows if I will make it back to you' serves as a poignant reminder of the uncertainty that accompanies any quest for self-fulfillment. The song concludes with a reaffirmation of the protagonist's determination to keep running, despite the unknowns. This relentless pursuit of one's path, even at the cost of separation and uncertainty, is the heart of 'Back 2 U.'