Released: 2020
PARTYNEXTDOOR’s “THE NEWS” explores the theme of deception and relational dissonance through the lens of personal experience and emotional introspection. At its core, the song is about a relationship riddled with unreciprocated emotions and unmet expectations, presenting a dialogue of misunderstanding and personal hurt that the artist tries to grapple with.
The hook of the song is simple but carries a significant weight. Repeating the lines, “What’s news to you, it ain’t news to me,” PARTYNEXTDOOR implies that while something might be shocking or unexpected for his partner, it is not new or surprising for him. It suggests a discrepancy in perspectives between the two, and perhaps an emotional numbness or desensitization from repeated past hurts. This reflects how people can experience the same relationship or events in very different ways.
When PARTYNEXTDOOR says, “And what’s blue to you, it ain’t blue to me,” he’s expanding on the same concept of perspective. The use of “blue” could signify sadness or trouble; essentially, he’s saying that what the other person finds upsetting doesn’t have the same impact on him anymore. He’s perhaps grown weary or accustomed to a tumultuous emotional environment, which has rendered him less reactive to situations that might otherwise be distressing.
In the verses, particularly when he says, “Hurt me then tell me, ‘Man up’,” PARTYNEXTDOOR paints a picture of emotional manipulation. His partner’s expectations of his emotional resilience contrast with his own experiences of pain. It’s a critique of societal norms around masculinity where men are often told to ‘man up’ instead of expressing vulnerability.
PARTYNEXTDOOR’s questions about his partner’s deservingness are poignant: “Do you deserve me? No way.” He wrestles with the conflict of knowing someone isn’t right for him yet being unable to let them go. This is an emotional dilemma many can relate to, feeling stuck between what is rationally right and emotionally challenging.
In the section “Deep down, I want out… Deep down, I feel tied down,” PARTYNEXTDOOR reflects on an internal conflict. Despite recognizing his dissatisfaction, he admits a sense of entrapment, tied perhaps by love or familiarity. It’s a depiction of how one can become ensnared by their emotions even when they know their situation is unhealthy.
The repetition of the phrase “What’s news to you…” in the song’s chorus drives home the song’s central theme of misunderstood and mismatched emotional responses. The ongoing nature of this misunderstanding is crucial to understanding the relational dynamics that PARTYNEXTDOOR describes, highlighting his disillusionment and fatigue with the current state of the relationship.
“Used to your bad side, baby,” PARTYNEXTDOOR acknowledges a degree of acceptance or resignation. This acknowledgment speaks volumes about the normalcy of dysfunction in their relationship. His awareness of his partner’s unchanging negative traits suggests a weary acceptance rather than an idealistic hope for change.
In the lyrics “Promised me something, not with your words,” PARTYNEXTDOOR hints at unfulfilled promises and perhaps non-verbal assurances that were broken. His repeated acknowledgment of knowing “different” or “I know,” suggests he’s aware of his partner’s duplicity or betrayals but remains entangled emotionally. It’s a cycle of knowing versus feeling.
To wrap it up, “THE NEWS” by PARTYNEXTDOOR delivers a complex and emotionally layered portrayal of a faltering relationship. It illustrates the conflicting emotions of wanting to break free while being emotionally bound, recognizing disloyalty but finding it hard to let go, and highlights the differences in perception that can exist within intimate relationships. The song taps into universal themes of love, trust, and heartbreak that resonate with listeners through its haunting, honest reflection.
