Baek Hwong, also known by their birth name, has emerged as a prominent voice in the music industry, encapsulating the struggles, triumphs, and reflections of a diverse range of lived experiences. Their music serves as a profound reflection of their growth and self-discovery, providing solace and insight into the complexities of contemporary existence.
Born out of the need to confront the pervasive question "Which Korea are you from?" faced by many Korean Americans, NoSo embodies Hwong's determination to forge a space where their unique identity can thrive. Their music is an indirect yet powerful response to the insecurities and frustrations that often arise from the Asian American experience. Hwong's narrative is akin to a balm for those who feel alienated, their lyrical prowess providing a sense of connection and understanding.
Growing up in a predominantly white environment, Hwong experienced a dissonance between their various identities, particularly grappling with gender dysphoria. This sense of not belonging anywhere and the perceived irreconcilability of their different facets compelled them to explore their identity further. The pivotal turning point came during their time at the University of Southern California, where they encountered a supportive community that encouraged them to delve into their gender identity.
Their debut album, titled "Stay Proud of Me," released on July 8, 2022, under Partisan Records, stands as a poignant reflection of Hwong's personal evolution. The album serves as a time capsule of their journey, capturing the nuances of growth and self-discovery, particularly during a period of quarantine when Hwong returned to their suburban roots. "Stay Proud of Me" is an emblematic transition, allowing Hwong to liberate themselves from the shackles of the past and embrace an empowered future.
Honey Understand
noso Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Drinking juice while hitting onto my face
I had a dream you looked pretty and familiar
You've been busy and too important for me
No, oh, no
Oh, write about who you are
How you'd listen without malice
Honey, understand, it's me against the crowds
Honey, understand, it's me, I'm falling
Honey, understand, I'm thinking out loud
Honey, understand, you won't know me, but I'm proud
In northern Italy, the pieces of the shoreline
Sweep up to hug you and push me through the red lights
I pull my hair and weep as a warning sign
Wake me gingerly, I depersonalize
No, oh, no
Oh, write about who you are
How you'd listen without malice
You're make-believe
Honey, understand, it's me against the crowds
Honey, understand, it's me, I'm falling
Honey, understand, I'm thinking out loud
Honey, understand, you won't know me, but I'm-
Honey, understand, it's me against the crowds
Honey, understand, it's me, I'm falling
Honey, understand, I'm thinking out loud
Honey, understand, you won't know me, but I'm proud
Honey, understand, it's me against the crowds
Honey, understand, it's me, I'm falling
Honey, understand, I'm thinking out loud
Honey, understand, you won't know me, but I'm-
Honey, understand, it's me against the crowds
Honey, understand, it's me, I'm falling
Honey, understand, I'm thinking out loud
Honey, understand, you won't know me, but I'm proud
The lyrics of Nosso's "Honey Understand" depict a protagonist who seems to be grappling with feelings of frustration and alienation. The opening lines of the song are a playful and surreal depiction of someone riding a bike on the side of a freeway, drinking juice and having a dream about someone they miss. The next two lines, however, hint at the underlying feelings of this character: "You've been busy and too important for me." This line implies that the singer's relationship with the person they miss has been strained, possibly by the other person's success or ambitions. The chorus of the song centers around the phrase "Honey, understand," which serves as both a plea and a statement of defiance. The singer refuses to be defeated by the crowds or the circumstances that are keeping them apart. Instead, they assert their own pride and determination.
The second verse of the song introduces an element of surrealism, with its references to northern Italy and sweeping shorelines. These images add to the dreamlike and otherworldly feel of the song. However, the verse also describes the singer pulling their own hair and weeping, suggesting a deeper level of emotional turmoil. The final repetition of the chorus reinforces the idea of resilience and determination, even in the face of adversity.
Overall, "Honey Understand" is a song that speaks to the struggle to maintain relationships and a sense of self in a world that can be overwhelming and isolating.
Line by Line Meaning
I ride a bike on the side of the freeway
I am going against the norm and doing something dangerous or unconventional
Drinking juice while hitting onto my face
I am not taking care of myself properly and my behavior is self-destructive
I had a dream you looked pretty and familiar
I am thinking about someone I used to know and feeling nostalgic
You've been busy and too important for me
The person I am thinking about has moved on and doesn't have time for me anymore
Honey, understand, it's me against the crowds
I am struggling to fit in and be accepted by society
Honey, understand, it's me, I'm falling
I am experiencing a personal crisis or emotional breakdown
Honey, understand, I'm thinking out loud
I am expressing my thoughts and feelings without editing them
Honey, understand, you won't know me, but I'm proud
Even though I am different from others, I am proud of who I am and what I stand for
Writer(s): Abby Hwong
Contributed by Christopher K. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@PequnaSol
Always love finding new artists and listening to their songs on repeat! 😁👍
@instrumentaali
I heard this at an H&M today and had to look it up right away! So good.
@Kez_74
Been listening on repeat since I heard it tonight on the radio! Big love from the UK 💜
@soupbug
genuinely amazing wtf
@merediths.693
This is actually incredible
@Wailn_
Sweet song dude!
@pgplanas
I had to Shazam this song today at the mall. Amazing... can't get it out of my head. Definitely on my lists now.
@maem.villocino3206
OMG me too!! Was in H&M when I heard it
@elleswickhart2588
@@maem.villocino3206 so was I!! Had to Shazam it today in H&M and it’s been stuck in my head since
@franc7s.
THE AESTHETIC OF THIS I’m in love