Released: 2019
“Streets” by Doja Cat isn’t just a song; it’s a soulful confession of feeling lost in the vastness of emotions and the struggle to find someone who matches your energy and depth. The song weaves a narrative of longing, self-reflection, and the realization that the love she seeks is rare and irreplaceable.
Doja Cat kicks off the track acknowledging her internal battles and the hustle she’s entrenched in. The struggle with the “inner man” signifies battling with one’s own thoughts, desires, and the darker parts of the self that are often in conflict with what we outwardly pursue, like “get[ting] this money.” It sets the tone for a deeply introspective piece that’s as much about personal growth as it is about romantic desire.
As we delve into the chorus, Doja reveals the core of her yearning – finding someone like the person she addresses, someone who’s not just a romantic partner but also a solace, a mirror to her soul. The repetition of “like you” emphasizes the rarity and uniqueness of this person in her life. When she says, “Send your location, come through,” it’s more than a physical invitation; it’s a plea for emotional closeness and connection.
The verse that follows unpacks the complexities of their relationship. The admission, “Baby, we tried to fight it,” reflects on their attempts to deny or run away from what they truly felt, perhaps due to fear or not being ready. “Thought I needed something else” could suggest Doja’s exploration of desires outside the relationship, only to realize that what she needed was right in front of her all along. The space she needed wasn’t absence but room to grow individually so they could come together stronger.
The bridge has Doja acknowledging the support and grounding her partner provides, yet admits her past inability to see and appreciate it fully – “You held me so down / So down I never grew.” This realization is a turning point, suggesting a moment of growth and acknowledgement of her partner’s unwavering support through thick and thin.
In the spirited verse that follows, Doja Cat moves from introspection to declaration. She fiercely stakes her claim on her partner, marking him as a “rare breed” and essentially off-limits to others. The references to not sharing and taking him to meet the parents underscore her deep commitment and the seriousness of her intentions. Comparisons to fantasy and reality blur as Doja expresses how their connection transcends the ordinary – “We play our fantasies out in real life ways.” This marks a transcendence from the mundane, celebrating their unique bond.
Throughout “Streets,” Doja Cat blends vulnerability with assertiveness, encapsulating the complexity of love and self-discovery. It’s a modern anthem for anyone who’s found themselves lost in the labyrinth of love, yearning for that one person who feels like home. Unlike many tracks, this song delves deep into the psyche of its narrator, presenting a raw and unfiltered look into the chaos and clarity that love can bring into one’s life.
