Unbreakable Smile

Tori Kelly's 'Unbreakable Smile' is a powerful declaration of self-worth and resilience in the face of societal pressures and the music industry's often harsh realities. The song opens with a catchy, almost whimsical refrain, 'La da da da dee, You're not breaking me,' setting the tone for a message of unyielding strength. Kelly addresses the pitfalls of fame, likening it to a disease that can corrupt one's values and happiness. However, she emphasizes that the way one chooses to live their life is ultimately up to them, highlighting the importance of personal agency and integrity.

In the verses, Kelly reveals her desire to make a positive impact on the world, using her platform to inspire and bring hope to others. She rejects the notion that she must conform to certain behaviors or compromise her values to succeed. This is evident when she sings, 'I guess we have different definitions of living, but you'll twist my words anyway.' Here, she confronts the media and critics who often misinterpret or manipulate her actions and words. Despite these challenges, Kelly remains steadfast, smiling through the adversity because 'happiness is all I have.'

The chorus reinforces her unbreakable spirit, with the repeated lines 'You're not breaking me' and 'Got an unbreakable smile.' Kelly's lyrics also touch on her grounded nature, mentioning her family and church, and her refusal to be a pawn in the industry's game. She boldly states that she would rather be seen as 'boring' than compromise her authenticity. The song concludes with a reminder that her kindness should not be mistaken for weakness, encapsulating the essence of her message: strength, resilience, and unwavering self-belief in the face of external pressures.