'The light' and 'Talk to me' were released as an advance of 'Cloak', his full length debut out on June 3rd, 2016.
https://soundcloud.com/jordan-rakei
Selfish
Jordan Rakei Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
When I'm doing things that ain't good for you
So what am I supposed to say?
When I try so hard but it feels the same
Said this growing love won't grow
If you don't let me lead my self (my self)
Said this growing love won't show
Oh cause this right now ain't good for my health (my health)
Cause you're selfish caught in the mood tonight
And you're always thinking bout you uh
And you're selfish conceited by your own right
Yeah maybe that's my point of view yeah yeah
And you're selfish caught in the mood tonight
And you're always thinking bout you uh
Cause you're selfish conceited by your own right
Yeah maybe that's my point of view yeah yeah
(Saxophone Break)
See her day is quickly gone
All her problems left in long alone
Still I feel like nothing's changed
She wants to move it in the fast lane (in the fast lane)
Cause you're selfish caught in the mood tonight
And you're always thinking bout you uh
And you're selfish conceited by your own right
Yeah maybe that's my point of view yeah yeah
And you're selfish caught in the mood tonight
And you're always thinking bout you uh
And you're selfish conceited by your own right
Yeah maybe that's my point of view yeah yeah
(Saxophone Break)
Cause you're selfish caught in the mood tonight
And you're always thinking bout you uh
And you're selfish conceited by your own right
Yeah maybe that's my point of view yeah yeah
And you're selfish caught in the mood tonight
And you're always thinking bout you uh
And you're selfish conceited by your own right
Yeah maybe that's my point of view yeah yeah
The song "Selfish" by Jordan Rakei is a reflection on the internal conflict that arises when we want to pursue our own desires, even when they are damaging to those we care about. The chorus of the song repeats the word "selfish" to emphasize the guilt and shame that the singer feels. He knows that he is putting his own needs above his partner's and recognizes that this is a behavior that is not sustainable in a healthy relationship. The lyrics "Said this growing love won't grow, if you don't let me lead myself" highlights the importance of autonomy in a relationship, but also recognizes the interdependence necessary to maintain a healthy partnership.
The second verse of the song takes on a more observational tone, commenting on the qualities of the person the singer is addressing. The phrase "caught in the mood tonight" suggests a sense of recklessness and impulsivity, which is contrasted with the singer's desire for stability and intentionality. The saxophone break in the middle of the song provides a musical interlude that captures the mood of the song and adds a layer of emotional complexity.
Overall, "Selfish" is a powerful song that explores the difficulties of balancing our own desires with our responsibilities to those we love. It captures the internal struggle that many of us face and encourages us to be mindful of how our choices impact others.
Line by Line Meaning
So what am I supposed to do? Hmm yeah
What actions should I take when I continue to do things that are harmful to you?
When I'm doing things that ain't good for you
I am engaging in behaviors that are detrimental to your well-being.
So what am I supposed to say?
How should I respond when I have made great efforts but the outcome remains unchanged?
When I try so hard but it feels the same
I am putting in a lot of effort, but I don't see any positive changes.
Said this growing love won't grow
Our relationship cannot flourish if you don't allow me to focus on my own needs and growth.
If you don't let me lead my self (my self)
I need space and independence to take control of my own life and decisions.
Said this growing love won't show
Our love cannot be expressed and blossom healthily if I continue to neglect my own wellbeing.
Oh cause this right now ain't good for my health (my health)
The way we are doing things is not conducive to my emotional or mental health.
Cause you're selfish caught in the mood tonight
You are being self-centered and consumed by your own emotions right now.
And you're always thinking bout you uh
You tend to prioritize your own needs and desires without considering others.
And you're selfish conceited by your own right
You have an inflated ego and believe yourself to be superior and entitled.
Yeah maybe that's my point of view yeah yeah
This may just be my perspective, but I feel that your actions are selfish.
See her day is quickly gone
The day is passing by quickly for her.
All her problems left in long alone
All her issues and worries are left unaddressed and unattended.
Still I feel like nothing's changed
Even though time passes, it seems like nothing has improved or improved.
She wants to move it in the fast lane (in the fast lane)
She wants to quickly move forward and accelerate progress in her life, but it may not be healthy.
Contributed by Chase I. Suggest a correction in the comments below.