Released: 2025
“SPIDER-MAN SUPERMAN” by PARTYNEXTDOOR featuring Drake delves into the complexity of romantic relationships and the unrealistic expectations that can come with them. The song conveys the emotional turbulence of a relationship where one partner is expected to save the other, likening this to being a superhero like Spider-Man or Superman. However, both artists highlight the struggles and reality that they are not capable of being saviors, ultimately embracing their human limitations.
The opening lines from PARTYNEXTDOOR, “Yeah, of course, of course, I got feelings for you, but Forgot the word, fuckin’,” indicate an abrupt acknowledgment of his feelings, quickly interrupted by a realization that he is overwhelmed and needs to escape through touring. The use of the colloquial “fuckin’” showcases a moment of raw emotion and stress. He then laments, “I can’t even breathe, do you get me? It’s a mad ting,” where “mad ting” is slang for a crazy situation. Here, he emphasizes the chaos and suffocation he feels in the relationship.
When PARTYNEXTDOOR says, “Girl, I wish I could save you, but I can’t,” it becomes clear that he recognizes his partner’s need for saving, but admits his inability to be her savior. This notion of being expected to rescue someone is likened to superheroes, which is a recurrent metaphor throughout the song.
In the lines, “That girl took me for Spider-Man, Superman,” PARTYNEXTDOOR touches upon the unrealistic expectations placed on him. These characters are synonymous with saving others and having superhuman capabilities, which he does not possess. This reflects the theme of pressure and unattainable standards in relationships.
“’Cause, girl, you got the power in your hands, Look you even do it no hands (damn)” emphasizes the partner’s own strength and independence. PARTYNEXTDOOR admires her, recognizing her power, and subtly implies that she might not need saving after all. The use of “no hands” indicates a remarkable ability to manage things independently.
As he goes on, “How could you admire a man? They don’t even come nice to the dance,” he expresses disbelief at her admiration for other men who may not treat her well. This is PARTYNEXTDOOR pointing out her misguided expectations.
When he mentions, “Way you talk about your ex, I know it’s facts, I feel you,” it signifies that he understands her past pain and perhaps sees himself in her, suggesting a deep empathy and connection. “The way we fucked is better than what we DM’d on Instа’” translates to their physical intimacy surpassing any digital interaction, reflecting the authenticity of their connection.
Drake’s verse continues the theme of failed savior complex. “This girl took me for Spider-Man, Superman” reiterates the sentiment of being perceived as more than human. The lyrics, “Time passes, whether we’re lookin’ at the clock or not,” highlights the inevitability of time moving on despite their emotional struggles. He comments on material gestures with “whether I’m coppin’ you that watch or not,” where “coppin’” means buying.
Drake adds, “Lucky for you, I don’t just love you for you, I love you for who you tell me you’re gonna be one day too,” indicating that he values her aspirations and future potential, not just her present self. This underscores the notion that he believes in her capacity to grow and change.
The recurring line, “This girl wants me to save her, I can’t,” reaffirms the main theme. It’s a clear statement of the inability to live up to the superhero role expected by the partner. This phrase poignantly sums up the crux of their predicament: the desire to save versus the reality of being unable to.
In summary, “SPIDER-MAN SUPERMAN” navigates through the pressures of being seen as a rescuer in a romantic relationship, reflecting on personal limitations and the unrealistic expectations that can cause emotional strain. Both PARTYNEXTDOOR and Drake use superhero metaphors to convey their frustrations and the eventual realization that they cannot fulfill these roles. Historically, this song fits into a broader narrative within hip-hop and R&B, where artists grapple with themes of love, vulnerability, and self-awareness.
