The Devil You Know

X Ambassadors' song "The Devil You Know" delves into the concept of familiarity and the comfort it brings, even when that familiarity is with something negative or challenging. The repeated phrase, "The devil you know," suggests that it's often easier to deal with known problems or adversities than to face the uncertainty of new ones. This idea is encapsulated in the saying, "Better the devil you know than the devil you don't," which the song reiterates throughout its lyrics. The repetition emphasizes the human tendency to stick with what is familiar, even if it is not ideal, because the unknown can be more frightening and unpredictable.

The song also touches on themes of materialism and the pursuit of wealth, as seen in the lines, "Make that money pile up baby, pile up higher." This could be interpreted as a commentary on how people often chase financial success, believing it will bring them security and happiness. However, this pursuit can also become a 'devil' they know, a familiar struggle that they continue to engage with despite its potential to lead to stress and dissatisfaction. The juxtaposition of these themes suggests a complex relationship between comfort, familiarity, and the pursuit of material goals.

Musically, X Ambassadors are known for their blend of rock, pop, and soul, often incorporating powerful vocals and emotive lyrics. "The Devil You Know" fits within this style, using a catchy, repetitive structure to drive home its message. The song's production, with its rhythmic beats and layered vocals, creates an almost hypnotic effect, mirroring the cyclical nature of the struggles and pursuits it describes. This combination of lyrical content and musical style makes the song both thought-provoking and engaging, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own 'devils' and the comfort they find in the familiar.