Released: 2016 • Features: Chance the Rapper, Jeremih
“Living Single” is a reflective piece by Big Sean featuring Chance the Rapper and Jeremih. The song chronicles the transition from single life to one of committed relationships, examining the pleasure and pitfalls, heartache and joy that comes along with both stages. It emphasizes the sustenance derived from a meaningful relationship in a world that often seems chaotic.
Big Sean sets the stage with him being young, single, and ready to mingle, exemplifying the freedom that comes with it (“You know taking double shots, saying fuck a single”). He mentions the difficulty of maintaining multiple relationships, humorously citing his mom’s struggle to keep up with the names of his different girlfriends.
Yet he admits his mind often circles back to his “ex-ex-ex girl”, a reminiscent of past relationships where duality of pain and pleasure existed, hinting that deeper feelings persist (“worst times but she was the best girl”). The realization echoes in the lines, “Good girl, bad time, right place, wrong mind”. His unsuccessful attempt to reconnect with her sheds light on his regret.
The hook performed by Jeremih resonates the desire to have that special someone by your side in this “crazy, crazy world”. The title “Living Single” gets challenged here, advocating for a loving partnership.
Chance the Rapper continues the narrative, drawing upon his personal experiences of a serious relationship. His verse includes slightly humorous, intimate anecdotes showcasing the depth and significance of his bond (“Never got head while flaming up the blunt / You were my first, I’m just saying”).
However, he acknowledges the sacrifices and commitment required for maintaining this relationship, signified by “Flying out of town like baby don’t mind my player / Sleepy arguments via texts while I buy my beer”. Despite the challenges, he strongly advocates for committed relationships, expressing disdain for the single life (“Ain’t a single living thing that likes living single”).
The final verse brings a thought-provoking perspective as Sean questions a friend’s decision to marry young. The friend claps back poignantly, alluding to the hidden troubles of the single life that come in the form of untreated health issues and lack of emotional security (“Aye, at least when I hit the doctor I’m carefree with no plan b’s”).
Big Sean ends the storytelling with an introspection of his own actions in failed relationships (“And I’m the reason we ain’t make it work / That’s what makes it worse”), indirectly advocating for a committed relationship over living single.
“Living Single” effectively deals with the carefree, often chaotic, single life with the deep, meaningful, but challenging aspects of committed relationships. It serves as an anthem for those in the crossroads, encouraging them to appreciate the joys of companionship despite its potential pitfalls.
