Crying Through “You Should Be Sad:” A Journey Through Halsey’s Emotions
Since her debut in 2015, Halsey has captivated audiences with her emotional and raw lyrics. The release of her latest single, “You Should Be Sad,” is no exception. The song features vocals reminiscent of Halsey’s country roots and lyrics that express deep feelings of heartbreak and betrayal. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the meaning behind the song and what it means to Halsey and her fans.
The Inspiration Behind “You Should Be Sad”
In an interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, Halsey revealed that the inspiration behind “You Should Be Sad” came from a breakup that left her feeling unappreciated and mistreated. The song’s lyrics illustrate how her ex-partner’s lack of effort in the relationship caused her to feel devalued. She sings, “If you’re not here to turn the temperature up, then why am I still dancing?”
The song’s title is a direct reference to the way Halsey’s ex felt about their relationship. She explains that when the relationship ended, the ex reached out to her, expecting her to be upset that they were no longer together. “You Should Be Sad” is Halsey’s response to that message, letting her ex know that she’s not sad; she’s angry.
The Entrance of Country Music
One of the most significant changes in “You Should Be Sad” is the introduction of country music to Halsey’s discography, a genre that she has expressed interest in over the years. The song features “a driving guitar riff and twangy accenting harmonies, the sound begging to be accompanied by a line dance,” according to Time magazine.
In a tweet, Halsey explained that she grew up in New Jersey listening to country music. “My dad was a bassist and loved bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd and Alabama,” she said. The country-inspired sound in “You Should Be Sad” was an unexpected but welcomed surprise for her fans who are excited to see Halsey’s experimentation with different genres.
Breaking Through The Pain
“You Should Be Sad” is not just a break-up song; it’s a song about healing from the pain of a toxic relationship. Halsey laments, “No, you’re not half the man you think that you are / And you can’t fill the hole inside of you with money, drugs, and cars.” The lyrics show how even though the relationship ended, Halsey’s ex didn’t change, a common realization for those who have experienced a toxic partner.
The song’s lyrics also express the complex emotions that come with a breakup. Halsey’s emotional range includes anger, sadness, and acceptance, making it relatable to those who have gone through a similarly challenging time. She sings, “You’re not half the man you think that you are / And you just can’t fill the hole inside of you with me.”
Final Thoughts
Halsey’s “You Should Be Sad” is a song that encapsulates both the pain and healing that comes after a toxic relationship. The song’s lyrics are relatable to many people who have been through such an experience, and its country-inspired touches open Halsey’s music to audiences who may not have listened to her before.
As she has done with her previous releases, Halsey bares her soul to her fans and gives them a glimpse into her personal life through her music. The honesty and transparency found in “You Should Be Sad” are what make Halsey’s music a unique and powerful force in the industry.
