The Real Meaning Behind BTS's 'I Need U' - Nicki Swift

"My life's ruined all because of you. I'm so done with it, I don't want you anymore," BTS sings in their hit "I Need U" (translation by Genius). They then break into a chorus of "I need you, girl. Why do you love me and leave me all by yourself? I need you, girl." Sounds like they're having a hard time making their mind up about this girl, huh?

Well, that's kind of the point. According to Billboard, which ranked "I Need U" as one of the most culturally significant songs of the last ten years, BTS's breakout hit perfectly encapsulates the reason their music is so successful.

The story at the root of the song is a story of youth. BTS explores the dichotomy of angst and optimism, love and hate, and anxiety and fearlessness that defines the teenage experience. "I need you, girl. Why do I need you when I know it hurts me?" they sing. "I Need U" further plays up the horrors of young love by pulling inspiration from R&B tunes to build an atmosphere of heartbreak and longing, per Billboard.

Moral of the story: it sucks being a teenager, even if you're a mega-successful K-Pop star.

Let's block ads! (Why?)