Released: 2017
Kehlani’s ‘I Wanna Be’ is an emotional, heart-felt expression of love and longing, focusing on the desire to be someone’s everything. The song delves into the yearning for exclusivity and assurance in a relationship, painting a picture of dedication and commitment. It also highlights themes of vulnerability, emphasizing the efforts one might go to in securing and nurturing a love that feels eternal.
The hook is straightforward and direct, encapsulating the essence of the song. “Tell me what I gotta do to make you fall in love” is a plea for understanding and guidance. Here, Kehlani seeks a roadmap to win over her lover’s heart. This sentiment captures a universal experience—wanting clear signs or instructions to navigate the often confusing terrain of love and relationships.
The first verse maintains this narrative. Kehlani offers to take any necessary steps to draw her partner closer. “I’ll come and pick you up” reflects a willingness to be proactive and engaged. There’s a romantic idealism in wanting to be indispensable to someone, the person they consistently rely on. The underlying message here is about making oneself available and present in a relationship.
Kehlani repeats “Oh, I would like to get to know if this could be, be what we want,” indicating a curiosity and hope that the relationship can fulfill mutual desires. It’s not just about her own needs, but whether they can both find what they seek together. This conveys a sense of hopefulness and partnership, suggesting a willingness to explore possibilities with an open heart.
The chorus of “I wanna be the only girl that you ever need” emphasizes the exclusivity she desires. This is a straightforward declaration of her wish to be central to her partner’s life. The repetition of “I wanna be” acts almost like an incantation, underscoring the strength and depth of her desire. She wishes not just to be seen but to be irreplaceable in his world.
“I know that you’re with it but you can do better” introduces a moment of self-awareness and empowerment. Kehlani is both recognizing the worth in her partner while suggesting that she might be a better choice for them. It suggests confidence and assurance, not in a competitive way, but in knowing what she brings to the table. This speaks to self-esteem and awareness in romantic contexts.
Further, when she sings “I want a lifetime love, I want a guarantee,” it highlights a longing for certainty and stability. This isn’t just about passion; it’s about a sustainable connection. The term ‘lifetime love’ indicates she is thinking long-term, beyond the honeymoon phase. It hints at a mature perspective on relationships, understanding that real love requires durability and commitment.
As the bridge transitions into a plea for presence and affection, “Who you pull up and slide in for, yeah,” reflects a cultural colloquialism in modern romance. Here, ‘pull up’ and ‘slide in’ refers to the casual and comfortable presence one might have in a partner’s life. It’s an imagery-laden expression of being a reliable figure who shows up, echoing the themes of devotion and dependability.
The verse continues, “Know I’m the one, what they trying for? Yeah,” reiterating self-assurance. This line serves as a challenge to both her lover and potential competitors, highlighting her belief that she’s unmatched. It showcases a confident woman who understands her value and what she offers in a relationship, reinforcing the idea of being someone worth choosing and investing in.
Finally, the repeated phrases at the end underline a resolute dedication. Kehlani expresses a finality in her wants, with “I want this to be for forever,” signifying a hopeful end goal. Throughout the song, there’s a mix of vulnerability and strength, perfectly balanced with a rhythm and melody that enhance the yearning quality of the lyrics. ‘I Wanna Be’ captures a common narrative of desire, while also exploring themes of self-worth, and hope in love, with an openness to embrace and create meaningful, lasting connections.
