T$RL

The Neighbourhood's song "T$RL" (True Story, Real Life) is a candid exploration of the complexities of fame, identity, and self-perception. The lyrics open with a declaration of authenticity, contrasting the singer's genuine experience with the perceived superficiality of others. The line "I am black and white, everybody else just fakes it" suggests a sense of duality and authenticity in the artist's identity, while criticizing the inauthenticity he sees around him. This sets the tone for a song that delves deeply into the personal and professional struggles of the artist.

The song continues to explore the theme of fame, with the artist reflecting on his journey from obscurity to stardom. The lyrics describe the transition from working at a mall to signing with a label and gaining internet fame. Despite the apparent success, there's a palpable sense of disillusionment. The artist expresses a feeling of being trapped by his newfound fame, as seen in lines like "Now it's getting kinda hard just to lay low" and "Now we're a little bit famous, and I think I might hate it." This juxtaposition of success and dissatisfaction highlights the often overlooked downsides of fame.

In the latter part of the song, the artist delves into more personal struggles, including loneliness and self-doubt. The lyrics reveal a deep sense of vulnerability, with lines like "I could use a little help" and "I'm upset with myself." The mention of wanting to "have sex with myself" is a metaphor for self-sufficiency and the desire to solve one's own problems. The song closes with a reflection on the superficiality of accolades, emphasizing that material success does not equate to personal fulfillment. The raw honesty of "T$RL" offers a poignant look at the artist's internal battles and the often harsh reality of life in the spotlight.