What If Feat. Verbal (m-flo)
Suite Chic
Exploring Freedom and Identity in 'What If' by Suite Chic
The song 'What If' by Suite Chic, featuring Verbal from m-flo, delves into themes of freedom, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The opening lines, 'Hateshinai sora wo miageta / Kiiroi tori ga tobidatta,' set a tone of boundless possibilities and the pursuit of freedom, symbolized by a yellow bird taking flight. This imagery suggests a longing for liberation and the inherent sacrifices that come with it, as the protagonist gains freedom but loses something valuable in the process.
Verbal's rap sections introduce a dynamic contrast, blending English and Japanese to emphasize the chaotic and unpredictable nature of life. Lines like 'Yo what! no fikushon, jigsoo puzzlin' y'all / Hajimaru dorama koko wa' highlight the drama and complexity of existence, likening it to a jigsaw puzzle. The references to Hollywood and the entertainment industry further underscore the performative aspects of identity and the pressures to conform to societal expectations.
The chorus, 'Tatoeba ima anata ga / Watashi no koto wo... / Urayande iru nara / Yorokonde... / Irekawatte ageru wa,' explores the idea of empathy and the willingness to trade places with someone else to understand their happiness. This sentiment is echoed in the lines, 'Anata wa mada kizuitenai / Anata wa hitori ja nai koto o,' reminding listeners that they are not alone and encouraging them to remember the warmth of human connection. The song ultimately calls for embracing both joy and sorrow, as they are integral parts of the human experience, and urges listeners to break free from the fog of uncertainty and soar towards their true selves.