Released: 2018
Right off the bat, “SKELETONS” by Travis Scott dives deep, moving through themes of fast living, the complexities of relationships in the limelight, and introspection. This track takes us on a ride through the high life, moments of intimacy, and the reflective spaces of Scott’s mind, all wrapped in a mesmerizing, almost dreamlike production.
The song kicks off setting an ethereal tone, with Travis talking about floating and feeling in slow motion, a metaphor for perhaps feeling numb or detached amidst a fast-paced life. When he mentions, “We just rocked Coachella, I gave her half of the check,” it’s a flex, but also a nod to sharing his success with someone close, though the relationship seems transactional at times—highlighted by lines like, “If you take your girl out, do you expect sex?” Here, Travis is touching on the superficial expectations and the give-and-take in relationships fueled by fame and fortune. The “pearl necklace” could be a literal gift symbolizing moments of intimacy but also serves as a metaphor for superficial expressions of affection.
The repeated references to not passing the loud (marijuana) out of respect and needing a towel post-intimacy paint a vivid picture of Scott’s behind-the-scenes life, blending raw moments with contemplations on respect and expectations. By saying, “Took a church visit, you know, ’cause the world hectic,” Scott hints at seeking solace or redemption amidst chaos, a stark contrast to the wild lifestyle depicted earlier. The motif of the ocean runs through the song, symbolizing vast, uncontrollable emotions or situations Travis finds himself in, with bad memories echoing like waves. The closing lines bring us back to the theme of feeling adrift, “Feels like slow motion, we’re floating at the speed,” suggesting an ongoing battle with finding peace amidst turmoil.
In essence, “SKELETONS” layers themes of success, intimacy, and existential musings with a backdrop of celebrity. Travis Scott navigates between flaunting the highs of his lifestyle and the introspective lows, all while encapsulated in the metaphor of being lost at sea—floating aimlessly in the vast ocean of his thoughts and experiences.
