Introduction
(Two, three, four)
Table of Contents
I was closing all the blinds
Just so you could sleep the night through
I was staying by your side
Just so I knew you were okay
And I was opening the door
Just to see if you would walk through
I started painting all the walls
Just to see if you liked the shade
Chorus
I would love just to be stuck to your side
Not with anybody else, anybody else
It’s enough just to keep us occupied
Please don’t go
I would love just to be stuck to your side
Not with anybody else, anybody else (Don’t go)
It’s enough just to keep us occupied (Please don’t go)
Verse 2
You were holding out your hands
Hoping I’d be there to hold to
I went out to Amsterdam
Just so I could give you some space
But I kept opening my door
Just to see if you would walk through
But now I’m painting all my walls
Just to see if you like the shade
Chorus
I would love just to be stuck to your side
Not with anybody else, anybody else
It’s enough just to keep us occupied
Please don’t go
I would love just to be stuck to your side
Not with anybody else, anybody else (Don’t go)
It’s enough just to keep us occupied (Please don’t go)
Outro
Not with anybody else, anybody else
Please don’t go
Not with anybody else, anybody else, no
Please don’t go
Album title: WHO CARES? (2022)
The Deep Meaning Behind “THE SHADE”
“THE SHADE” is the eighth song featured on Rex Orange County’s fourth album, Who Cares? The track sees him reminisce about his regrets with a past lover.
As a dedicated listener of Rex Orange County, I remember stumbling upon this song at a friend’s house during a summer gathering. From the moment the first piano chords hit, I was captivated. The soft and melancholic melody immediately struck a chord within me, and I found myself lost in the song’s emotion and introspection.
The lyrics of “THE SHADE” beautifully depict the complexities of a relationship. Rex paints a vivid picture of his efforts to be there for his loved one, from closing the blinds to ensure their peaceful sleep to opening the door, hoping they would walk through. The repetition of these actions signifies his devotion and desire to be by their side.
However, despite his efforts, there is a sense of longing and uncertainty expressed throughout the song. Rex describes his willingness to be stuck to their side, not with anybody else. It’s a heartfelt plea for them to stay and a testament to the intensity of his love. This vulnerability is further emphasized in the chorus, where he acknowledges that it’s enough just to keep them occupied, emphasizing that their presence alone is all he needs.
The second verse delves into the complexity of the relationship. Despite his partner holding out their hands, Rex feels the need to give them space and distance. He travels to Amsterdam, possibly to gain a new perspective or allow them time to breathe. Yet, he admits that he still opens his door, hoping they will walk through once again. This constant search for reassurance and connection is relatable to anyone who has experienced the uncertainties of love.
Throughout the song, Rex Orange County poignantly conveys the desire for validation and acceptance from a loved one. The act of painting the walls to see if they like the shade symbolizes his attempts to please them and find common ground. It speaks to the universal desire to be understood and to create an environment that resonates with both individuals in a relationship.
The outro of “THE SHADE” echoes the chorus once more, with a plea to not go with anybody else. It’s a final plea for their commitment and an acknowledgment of the fear of losing them to someone else. The repetition of “Please don’t go” at the end captures the vulnerability and desperation in wanting the relationship to endure.
In conclusion, “THE SHADE” by Rex Orange County is a tender and introspective exploration of the complexities of love and relationships. Through heartfelt lyrics and a captivating melody, Rex beautifully expresses his regrets and desires, creating a song that resonates with listeners on a deep emotional level.
Credits
Produced By Benny Sings & Rex Orange County
Written By Benny Sings & Rex Orange County
Release Date March 11, 2022
Songs That Sample THE SHADE Everything: 2022 Megamix byJosephJames
THE SHADE Covers Stay With Me byBrightCampa
