In the twisted vein of rebellious and fearless artists like Janis Joplin, Billie Holiday, Amy Winehouse and Adele. On June 21, 2024, Lola Young in gallant unveiled her uncompromising and unpredictable sophomore album, ‘This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway,’ an emotional roving of self-discovery that dissect the intricacies to the roller coaster ride of shattered dreams, fleeting connections, and the bittersweet nostalgia of youth, leaving listeners breathless and begging for more. And yet, with this bona-fide moxie and profanic, soul-baring, pop record, Young, with ill-intent has arrived with the intention of causing a mess of things. She playfully explores her insecurities, critically lashes out at narcissistic exes, and openly embraces contradiction without regret. Critics may indulge in the fact and say that Young wishes to enjoy her cake and relish every bite of it at the same time, however, she is choosing to focus on her own contentment without concern for external opinions or judgments about what others may think or say.
Hailing from the gritty streets of South East London, the 24-year-old artist’s music embodies a raw authenticity that may not resonate with those who are self-absorbed ex-lovers or judgmental figures of those who have wronged her in traditional circles. To put it bluntly, if you fall into these categories, then this album was never intended for your consumption in the first place. Through the power of storytelling, if you are open-minded and willing to listen with empathy and understanding, you may be surprised by what you discover in a voice that effortlessly conveys emotion.
“I work hard to stay in your good books,” a phrase so simple, yet so powerful; akin to a love letter; straight from a page of your favorite author, filled with emotion and longing. The introductory track, “Good Books” reflects on a time when Young was bending over backwards, breaking her own backbone just to stay in someone’s good graces. She finds herself in a twisted maze of unrequited love and unfulfilled desires. She is faithfully handing out love, trying to win the affection and attention of her partner, only to receive a kick in the back and be met with a cold shoulder, surrounded by a cloud of smoke.
The ultimatum hangs in the air like a thick fog, suffocating any hope of a true connection. “It’s me or the weed,” she cries out, hoping for some sign that she matters more than a fleeting high. But her pleas fell on deaf ears, drowned out by the sound of lighters flicking and bongs bubbling. Solidifying the divide between them, the partner’s nonchalant response, “What the hell do you mean?” underscores a lack of understanding or concern for her emotional needs. In this chaotic world of blurred lines and broken promises, Young is left with the harsh reality that she will never be her partner’s top priority. No amount of love or sacrifice can change that fact. And so, they will continue to drift further away, lost in a murky haze of longing and disappointment.
If you find yourself entangled in a toxic, abusive dynamic, take heed. This is not a love story worth romanticizing. Instead, take causation from this experience of manipulation and control; akin to the ominous signs of a traditionally red-colored carpet prestiged and glamorized entirely in red, parading the grand entrances of celebrities and industry figures in Hollywood for validation with cake strewn about haphazardly; a representation of empty promises of relationships and false rewards of fame, a reminder that we don’t have to conform to society’s twisted expectations. Young’s lyrics cut through the bullshit like a knife, exposing the toxic dynamics and harsh realities of modern relationships. In a world where women are constantly told to be perfect, to please others at their own expense, her unfiltered, unapologetic, and unforgettable open resistance, bold disobedience is a breath of fresh air. She’s not afraid to get messy, and neither should you.
Soaking in the intoxicating, breakout megahit of Lola Young’s rebellious anthem “Messy,” is an exploration of the complexities of being human in a world that demands conformity. I can’t help but feel struck by the raw and unabashed honesty emanating from her cavernous vocals, lyrical candor, and endearing cackle, shitting all over hypocritical, societal standards that women are pressured to uphold in relationships; a narcissistic one at that. Young’s refusal to be anything other than herself is a rebellious act in itself.
With each note she hits, it’s like a confessional and confrontational punch to the gut to society’s standards of beauty — “Ok, so yeah, I smoke like a chimney.” It’s a savage, unapologetic declaration into the life of the artist, who doesn’t hold back when it comes to their vices and struggles. The self-deprecating humor resonates with the vulnerability that “I’m not skinny and I pull a Britney every other week” is a clever nod to the breakdown and public scrutiny of pop princess Britney Spears, but also a reflection on the ups and downs of Young’s own tumultuous life and appearance. But despite these confessions, there is an underlying defiance in the question posed in the final line — “Who do you want me to be.” This challenges the audience to embrace the artist as they truly are, imperfections and all.
And then, like a bolt of lightning striking the dark, grotesque fall of Lucifer, the explosive bombshell drops — She vents, ramping up to the catchy, expletive-laden hook that’s catapulted her to pop super stardom: “A thousand people I could be for you, and you hate the fucking lot.” Young refuses to be a pawn in the game of those who seek to exploit her of their own selfish desires. Whether it’s the oppressive grip of society, the corrupt machinations of government, or the toxic relationships with family, two-faced friends, or partners — she is taking back her power and breaking free from their grasp and being who she wants to be.
Lola Young has that raw, barbed-blunted depth of soul, channeling Amy Winehouse and the rebellious London-attitude of early Lily Allen. But don’t get it twisted, Young’s album, This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway isn’t just a copycat pop act. It’s a whole different beast; a juxtaposition of perfection and imperfection, cleverness and stupidity, messy and clean, creating a chaotic yet captivating listening experience. It's like she’s created her own scorching pop stratum challenging the status quo, one that’s wilder, grittier, and just a coruscating distress signal into the beautiful chaos, proving that sometimes the most powerful art comes from embracing our imperfections. She’s carving out her own path in the popular music scene, where fans can’t wait to see where she takes them.