Billie Holiday

Warpaint's song 'Billie Holiday' is a fascinating blend of homage and personal declaration. The repeated spelling of 'B.I.L.L.I.E.H.O.L.I.D.A.Y.' serves as a mantra, invoking the legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday, known for her emotive voice and profound impact on music. This repetition not only pays tribute to Holiday but also sets a rhythmic foundation for the song, creating a hypnotic effect that draws listeners into its emotional core.

The lyrics explore themes of unwavering loyalty and love, reminiscent of the classic song 'My Guy' by Mary Wells, which is directly referenced in the verses. The lines 'Nothing you can say can tear me away from my guy' and 'I'm sticking to my guy like a stamp to a letter' emphasize a steadfast commitment to a loved one, suggesting a bond that is unbreakable despite external pressures. This devotion is further highlighted by the declaration, 'I gave my guy my word of honor to be faithful and I'm gonna,' underscoring a promise of fidelity and trust.

In addition to the themes of love and loyalty, the song also delves into the idea of personal identity and struggle. The line 'As I walk this line, I am bound by the other side' suggests a sense of duality and conflict, perhaps reflecting the challenges faced by Billie Holiday herself. The mention of being 'a war' and the invitation to 'come paint' could symbolize the internal battles and the act of creating art as a means of expression and coping. The repeated phrase 'birds of a feather' reinforces the idea of solidarity and shared experiences, whether in love or in the artistic journey.