Do What You Gotta Do (feat. Cheyenne Jackson)

The song "Do What You Gotta Do" performed by Dove Cameron featuring Cheyenne Jackson is a powerful duet that delves into the complex relationship between a father and his child, highlighting themes of neglect, self-interest, and the struggle for recognition. The lyrics present a conversation where the father, portrayed as a god-like figure, dismisses the need for emotional connection and kindness, suggesting that his brand of love is tough and devoid of traditional warmth. The child, on the other hand, accuses the father of being absent and self-centered, only doing what's best for himself rather than what's right for his offspring.

The song's chorus, "I did what I had to do," repeated by both characters, reflects the justifications people often make for their actions, especially when those actions are self-serving. The father claims he's given everything by giving nothing, a paradox that suggests his belief that by withholding affection and attention, he's somehow made his child stronger. The child counters this by asserting independence, having made it on their own without the father's help. This back-and-forth captures the tension between the two, each believing they are in the right.

The emotional climax of the song comes when the father suggests making new memories together, only to be rebuffed by the child who is over the neglect and ready to move on. This moment encapsulates the song's essence: the struggle to reconcile the past and the desire to either mend or end the relationship. The repeated line, "You do what you gotta do," serves as a reminder that in life's challenging moments, people often prioritize their own needs, sometimes at the expense of others. The song is a poignant exploration of the choices we make and the justifications we create to live with them.