Not Ok (feat. Chelsea Cutler)

Kygo's song 'Not Ok,' featuring Chelsea Cutler, delves deep into the emotional turmoil that follows a breakup. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with the aftermath of a relationship's end, marked by a precise count of the time since the separation—'seven months, two weeks, and seven days.' This meticulous tracking underscores the lingering pain and the difficulty of moving on. The distance between New York and LA symbolizes not just physical separation but also the emotional chasm that has developed. The protagonist's struggle is further highlighted by the haunting realization that their ex has moved on, replaced them, and now shares intimate moments with someone else.

The chorus, with its repetitive declaration of 'I'm not okay,' captures the raw, unfiltered emotion of the protagonist. The midnight calls, fueled by alcohol, reveal a desperate need for connection and validation, even if it means reaching out to the very person who caused the pain. This act of calling, despite knowing it might be irrational or 'crazy,' emphasizes the depth of the protagonist's emotional distress and their inability to find solace or closure.

The song also touches on the common yet often unhelpful advice from friends that 'all will heal in time.' Despite these reassurances, the protagonist finds no peace, indicating that the healing process is far from linear and can be fraught with setbacks. The use of substances like whiskey and cheap wine as coping mechanisms further illustrates the protagonist's struggle to numb the pain and escape the persistent memories of the past relationship. Kygo and Chelsea Cutler effectively convey the universal experience of heartbreak, making 'Not Ok' a poignant anthem for anyone navigating the difficult journey of moving on from a lost love.