Release — Saleka Lyrics

Song Facts:

• Album: LADY RAVEN (Original Music From The Motion Picture TRAP) 2024


• Producers: Saleka, Dot Da Genius, Elijah Fox


• Writers / Lyricist: Elijah Fox, Dot Da Genius, Saleka


• Release Date: June 7, 2024


• Genre: Pop / Soul.

Artist Info:

Saleka Shyamalan is an Indian American singer-songwriter and actress. She exhibiting a soulful voice with compelling, vulnerable songwriting, delving into themes of love. Her style blends traditional soul with modern elements, creating songs that are both emotionally resonant and stylistically contemporary. In the deep introspective part, she lets the listener peer into the thicket of complex emotions and relationships. Her first OST song was "Remain" performed by Saleka for the soundtrack of the film "Old" in 2021.

Annotations and Meaning:

Saleka's "Release" lyrics is a figurative dive into the complexities of an unhealthy love relationship, with love being compared to a "loaded gun." The metaphor seems to bring out the idea of a relationship full of peril but dangerously seductive from the very first contact. Beginning with the first lines, "I see danger / Your love's like a loaded gun," it is clear that the conflict and tension will be outlined, stating that the dangers exist with her involvement in their relationship.

The chorus goes, "I reach for nothing, cry tears for something That never will come away," thus exuding hopelessness and futility, driving the emotional difficulty and desire for a closure that is unrealizable.

The question "Can I keep the love or release us from the pain?" is finally that which asks whether to keep them out of pain or keep their love.

Verses two and three continue to plumb further the depths of his indebtedness of emotions and the scars which this relationship has bequeathed him. This is when he says lines such as "Help myself in your debt," and "Am I safer hiding from the damage done?" These lines pose the idea of whether the emotional security of distancing oneself is better than the vulnerability of confronting this other person. "I won't believe, I release you from me." These lines of narration decisively mark themselves against all preceding refusals to continue believing and holding on to such an eventually harmful love. What it effectively decides for the self—against clinging—instead shows the hard-earned determination of deciding upon self-healing against holding on.

Exploring the meaning of "Release"

Overview

"Release" by Saleka delves into the emotional conflict between holding onto love and seeking liberation from its pain. With haunting lyrics and a cinematic soundscape, it perfectly complements the dark and mysterious atmosphere of LADY RAVEN, the motion picture soundtrack it belongs to.

Meaning and Themes

The song grapples with themes of love, loss, and emotional liberation. It portrays a journey of self-reflection, where the narrator confronts the complexities of love that feels both dangerous and irresistible. The repeated imagery of love as a "loaded gun" underscores the simultaneous allure and peril of deep emotional entanglement.

• [Verse 1] The narrator compares love to a "loaded gun," evoking both the power and danger inherent in their relationship. The sense of loss is palpable as they reflect on the ashes left behind.
• [Chorus] A cry for release from the pain while yearning to retain the essence of love. This duality captures the emotional tension of wanting to move on without entirely letting go.
• [Verse 2] Questions of bravery and safety emerge. The narrator debates whether to shield themselves from further harm or to confront the remnants of their relationship head-on.
• [Bridge] A turning point where the narrator resolves to let go without grieving or pleading. This moment symbolizes strength and acceptance.

Musical Composition

The song's brooding melody and sparse instrumentation highlight Saleka's expressive vocals. The production, led by Dot Da Genius and Elijah Fox, adds a modern yet atmospheric feel, making it an evocative addition to the soundtrack.

Similar Songs

• Someone Like You – Adele
• Gravity – Sara Bareilles
• All I Ask – Adele
• Skinny Love – Birdy
• My Immortal – Evanescence

Connection to LADY RAVEN

The song’s dark and introspective tone mirrors the themes of the film TRAP, where emotional and physical entrapment drive the narrative. "Release" serves as a poignant auditory counterpart to the film’s exploration of resilience and self-discovery.

Legacy

Saleka's "Release" solidifies her reputation as a storyteller through music. It bridges the realms of personal emotion and cinematic grandeur, making it a standout track in both her discography and the soundtrack.

(c) Columbia Records.