Anything Goes

Tate Stevens' song "Anything Goes" delves into the emotional turmoil and reckless behavior that often follows a significant heartbreak. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who, in the absence of his significant other, finds himself engaging in behaviors that are out of character. The opening lines set the stage, revealing that he would typically be seeking a goodnight kiss rather than another beer, indicating a shift from a life of stability to one of chaos.

The chorus, with its poignant line "Anything goes, when everything's gone," encapsulates the essence of the song. It speaks to the sense of liberation and abandonment that comes when the person who once anchored you is no longer around. This newfound freedom, however, is not necessarily positive; it leads to impulsive decisions, such as inviting a stranger over and waking up in an unfamiliar place. The repetition of the phrase underscores the protagonist's resignation to his current state, where moral boundaries blur, and actions are driven by a need to fill the void left by the departed lover.

The second verse continues to explore the aftermath of these reckless nights. The protagonist's search for his blue jeans on a stranger's bedroom floor and his inability to recall her name highlight the disconnection and numbness he feels. The rhetorical question, "Shouldn't I feel guilty?" followed by the admission that he feels nothing, suggests a deep emotional detachment. This detachment is a defense mechanism, a way to cope with the pain of loss by shutting down emotionally and allowing himself to act without consequence.

Stevens' country roots shine through in the storytelling and the raw, honest portrayal of a man grappling with heartache. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the disorienting freedom that comes with the end of a significant relationship, capturing the bittersweet mix of liberation and loss.