Best Friend

Rex Orange County's 'Best Friend' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love, self-reflection, and the desire for emotional connection. The song's lyrics convey a sense of loneliness and the struggle to reconcile personal feelings with the reality of a relationship that cannot be. The opening lines set the tone for the song, revealing the artist's sense of isolation despite being surrounded by people who care for him. This juxtaposition of external love and internal emptiness introduces the central theme of the song: the search for genuine connection and understanding.

As the song progresses, Rex Orange County delves into the complexities of a relationship that is not meant to be. The lyrics 'I could've made you mine, but no, it wasn't meant to be' and 'you weren't made for me' suggest an acceptance of the situation, yet there's a lingering desire to be significant in the other person's life. The repeated aspiration to be the 'favorite boy' and the 'number one' reflects a deep yearning to be prioritized and cherished by the person he loves. However, there's a contradictory element present as well, with the line 'But I still wanna break your heart and make you cry,' indicating a tumultuous mix of emotions, including perhaps frustration or a desire for the other person to feel the same depth of emotion.

The song's conclusion brings a message of self-empowerment and growth. The artist encourages being true to oneself and finding love that appreciates one's authentic self rather than an idealized version. The repeated lines 'You're gonna wanna be my best friend, baby' could be interpreted as a hopeful prediction or a realization that the best relationships are built on a foundation of friendship and mutual respect. Rex Orange County's musical style, characterized by its blend of indie pop and alternative elements, complements the introspective lyrics, creating a track that resonates with listeners who have experienced the bittersweet nature of love and longing.