Released: 2024
Rod Wave’s song “25” offers a poignant introspection into his personal growth and the complex emotions accompanying his transition into adulthood. It conveys themes of change, self-reflection, and a yearning for genuine connection amidst the superficiality often found in relationships today.
The song opens with Rod expressing a feeling of unfamiliarity with himself, which may suggest a personal struggle with identity and mental health. The repetitive line “Do you do this often?” could be a question posed to himself, reflecting on his actions and whether he’s in a habitual cycle of introspection and melancholy. It’s an open-ended inquiry that establishes the song’s contemplative tone.
Rod candidly expresses how he feels disconnected from others and often misunderstood. This speaks to a broader social anxiety, which he admits to experiencing for years. He recognizes the awkwardness in interactions with his peers, suggesting a level of isolation despite being surrounded by people.
As he continues, Rod ponders about deeper commitments and relationships, conveying a desire for stability. The mention of “travel, see the world, getting drunk on an island,” juxtaposed with “wanna settle, start a family,” reveals an internal conflict between freedom and security.
The chorus revolves around an exploration of love and relationships. He critiques the modern dating scene, using vivid imagery like “the dating pool is fucked,” and questioning the genuine willingness of others to commit. Rod longs for a pure connection, where it feels like “it’s just us,” away from external chaos.
Rod shifts into a retrospective view of his early twenties. He reflects on past years with a sense of nostalgia and a critical lens. The progression from ages 21 to 25 captures a journey of experiences, illustrating how perspectives evolve as one grows older. At 25, he feels both tired and reflective, indicating the burden of accumulated life experiences.
There’s an existential undertone as Rod questions whether he is growing older or just tired of life’s repetitiveness. “Same old games, same old pain,” echoes a common human experience of being caught in a monotonous cycle, urging for a transformation in his life and priorities.
The repeated theme of “certain shit don’t excite me no more” underscores his growth and shifting interests. It’s an acknowledgment that he has outgrown previous interests and habits, which once might have been thrilling, but now seem mundane or even trivial.
The artist conveys a feeling of readiness for change. By recognizing that “certain shit ain’t like me no more,” Rod demonstrates a willingness to embrace his evolved identity. The repetition of “no more” reinforces a firm resolution to break away from old patterns.
Overall, “25” captures a deeply personal journey, universal to many, reflecting on youth, growth, and change. Rod Wave uses this track as an avenue to vent frustrations, reflect on past decisions, and set a course for the future. His music remains grounded in authentic emotions, capturing the essence of coming to terms with one’s evolving self amid societal pressures.
