
In my personal experience, I first heard the song “City of Angels” by Em Beihold on a road trip with a group of friends. As the song played through the car speakers, I was immediately captivated by the haunting melody and compelling lyrics. It was a song that resonated deeply with me, as it explored the inner struggles of having a heart in a city known for its superficiality and fakeness.
Table of Contents
The lyrics of “City of Angels” delve into the complexities of living in Los Angeles, often referred to as the “city of angels.” Em Beihold poetically describes the longing for genuine connection and validation in a place where appearances often overshadow authenticity. The narrator reflects on their friend’s transformation after gaining fame and success, expressing the pain of being left behind.
The song begins with the narrator acknowledging the challenges of having a heart in a city that values external beauty above all else. They express a longing for someone to recognize their worth and tell them that they are enough. The feeling of discomfort with unfamiliarity and vulnerability is palpable, as they question why they allowed the superficiality of others to enter their lives.
As the chorus kicks in, the narrator reflects on how their friend used to join in discussions about the fake personalities in the city but has now become one of them. The pain of this realization is evident in the lyrics, as they lament not foreseeing this change. The selfishness of their friend is highlighted, emphasizing their tendency to take without giving. The contrast between the luxurious Hollywood lifestyle and the emptiness it brings is portrayed as chilling.
In the second verse, the narrator reminisces about their friendship and the promises they made to each other. However, they express their disappointment at the year-long silence and their growing understanding of their friend’s self-centeredness. The lyrics suggest that while their friend may be loved by others, they are ultimately lonely.
Throughout the song, the phrase “city of angels” serves as both a reference to Los Angeles and a metaphor for the deceptive nature of fame and fortune. The lyrics imply that there is more to life than material wealth and validation from others. The repeated questioning of how one can live with themselves in a Hollywood mansion in the hills signifies the emotional emptiness that can come with superficial success.
As the bridge approaches, the narrator poses the question of whether the city’s inhabitants, including their friend, truly see the bigger picture of life beyond fame and fortune. The desire for more and the relentless pursuit of success are depicted as empty endeavors that offer nothing substantial in return.
In the final chorus, the narrator again expresses their pain at seeing their friend become one of the fake personalities they once derided. The repetition of the phrase “damn it hurts to say” emphasizes the emotional weight of this realization. The song culminates with the acknowledgment that there is so much more to life than the shallow pursuits of the city of angels.
“City of Angels” is a powerful song that delves into the complexities of fame, success, and the longing for genuine connection. Em Beihold’s introspective lyrics and haunting melody create a captivating listening experience that invites reflection on the true meaning of fulfillment and happiness in our lives.
Album title:
No information provided
Credits:
Produced By Nima Fakhrara
Written By Em Beihold
Musicians: Navid Hejazi, Ro Rowan & Matt Dyson
Cover art: Jim Beihold
Mastered by Alex DeYoung
Audio Engineer: Matt Dyson
Release Date: August 14, 2020
Tags:
Pop
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