Great One

Jessie Reyez's song 'Great One' delves into the universal human desire for greatness and the quest for meaning in life. The lyrics express a yearning to achieve significant milestones, such as making a million dollars and bringing success to her family, particularly her father. This ambition is not just about material wealth but also about making her days count and sharing joyous moments with her close friends, referred to as 'day ones.' The mention of 'Louis V' and 'billion dollars' symbolizes the societal markers of success, yet Reyez hints at a deeper, more personal fulfillment beyond these symbols.

The chorus of the song poses profound existential questions: 'What is life? What is love? What are lies? What is trust?' These questions reflect a search for deeper understanding and connection. Reyez emphasizes that 'everything is nothing without you,' suggesting that relationships and love are the true essence of life. This line underscores the idea that material success and achievements are hollow without meaningful connections and love.

In the latter part of the song, Reyez expresses a sense of urgency and impatience, 'running outta patience,' to achieve her goals and find her place in the world. She also touches on spirituality, expressing a desire to be 'saved' and to 'fly faded' when her time comes. This spiritual longing indicates a hope for transcendence and peace beyond the material world. The repetition of the existential questions in the final chorus, along with the hope of being 'enough,' encapsulates the song's central theme: the search for purpose, love, and self-worth in a world that often equates success with material wealth.