Skinny

Kaleo's song 'Skinny' delves into the harsh realities and pressures faced by individuals, particularly women, in the public eye. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the toxic expectations placed on them to maintain a certain appearance and demeanor. The repeated lines, 'You've got to stay skinny, don't you, girl?' and 'You've got to stay pretty, while you can,' highlight the relentless societal pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. This pressure is not just about physical appearance but also about maintaining a facade of perfection, which can be mentally and emotionally draining.

The song also touches on the darker aspects of fame, where the need to stay relevant and adored by fans can lead to self-destructive behaviors. Lines like 'Your face is rotten, ugliest smile I have seen' and 'Go on, surrender, another suicide teen' suggest the brutal criticism and mental toll that public scrutiny can take. The mention of 'another suicide teen' is a stark reminder of the tragic consequences that can arise from such relentless pressure and lack of genuine support.

Furthermore, the chorus's repetition of 'They'll try to burn you all out' serves as a powerful metaphor for the way the entertainment industry and society at large can exploit and discard individuals once they no longer fit the mold. The song's raw and unfiltered lyrics, combined with its haunting melody, create a poignant commentary on the superficial and often destructive nature of fame and beauty standards. Kaleo's 'Skinny' is a sobering reflection on the cost of living up to societal expectations and the urgent need for a more compassionate and realistic approach to beauty and success.