The Meaning Behind The Song: The Way I Loved You by REYNA
Song Title: The Way I Loved You
Artist: REYNA
Writer/Composer: Simon Oscroft, Dani Poppitt, Hannah Gabriela B, Victoriah Banuelos
Album: N/A
Release Date: June 21, 2019
Genre: Pop
Producer: Simon Oscroft
REYNA, the synth-pop duo comprised of Mexican-American sisters Vic Banuelos and Gabby Banuelos, has recently released a captivating single called “The Way I Loved You.” With hints of disco and a danceable beat, the song serves as a heartfelt letter to a first love that is no longer present. The elder sister Vic, who is openly gay and shares her personal experiences through her music, sings about longing for a love as profound as the first time around.
According to Vic, the song holds a significant meaning to her own journey of self-discovery and acceptance. When she went to college in Mexico, she was just starting to understand her sexuality and feeling comfortable in her own skin. During this time, she fell deeply in love with a girl and experienced an intense and passionate romance. Unfortunately, things didn’t work out, and both she and her partner ended up with broken hearts. “The Way I Loved You” reflects Vic’s desire to love someone with the same intensity, without any caution or fear. However, as she explains, each new relationship brings more guardedness, making it almost impossible to fully let oneself fall in love.
The song’s lyrics perfectly capture the complexities of love and the lingering memories of past relationships. Lines like “I haven’t seen you since the summer, and didn’t know it was the last time” evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflect on missed opportunities to express one’s true feelings. The pre-chorus acknowledges the painful truth that sometimes love and physical touch are not enough to sustain a relationship, and the fear of getting hurt again can hinder one’s ability to fully open up.
Personally, “The Way I Loved You” resonates deeply with me on a relatable level. We all carry memories of past loves and often wonder if we will ever experience that same level of passion and connection again. Like Vic, I too have experienced a love so profound that it consumed my every thought. It’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing that the intensity of that love may never be replicated. It’s a delicate balancing act, wanting to move on and love someone new while still holding onto the memories and lessons learned from a past relationship.
The chorus of the song emphasizes the desire to love somebody new in the same way as before, longing for a connection that feels familiar and comfortable. However, the realization that it may not be possible is heartbreaking. The post-chorus serves as a reminder of the need to move forward and find someone who is not the person we are still holding onto in our hearts.
As a listener, it’s impossible not to be captivated by REYNA’s unique blend of synth-pop and heartfelt lyrics. Their sincerity shines through in every verse, giving listeners a glimpse into their personal experiences and emotions. The vulnerability displayed in “The Way I Loved You” is what makes it so relatable and touching.
REYNA’s talent has caught the attention of notable figures in the industry, including Tegan and Sara, who have previously inspired the duo. Tegan and Sara recognized their talent and gave them a shoutout on Twitter after the release of their single, “Heartbeat.” With the support and recognition from fellow musicians, REYNA continues to create music that resonates with their audience.
As REYNA explores new material with renowned producers such as John ‘Feldy’ Feldmann, Joe Kirkland, and Lil Aaron, their future in the music industry looks promising. Additionally, the duo has the opportunity to open for synth-pop heroes Chvrches in Milwaukee’s Summerfest this coming July, further solidifying their presence in the genre.
In conclusion, “The Way I Loved You” is more than just a synth-pop song. It’s a reflection of the complexities of love, the longing for past connections, and the desire to find that same intensity in new relationships. REYNA’s heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies make this track a must-listen for anyone who appreciates raw and relatable music.
