by Vance Joy · 2024
The song “Riptide” by Vance Joy is about the narrator’s infatuation with a woman and his feelings of nervousness and excitement as he admires her unique qualities and navigates his own insecurities.
This song has been Shazamed over 17,383,226 times. As of this writing, Riptide is ranked 200
Riptide’ by Vance Joy is a catchy song that many people love. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this song resonate with so many. ⬇️
The song paints a vivid picture of a whimsical journey, both eerie and enchanting. With a blend of nostalgia and longing, it takes us on a ride through a sea of emotions, where joy mingles with trepidation.
The chorus is the beating heart of “Riptide,” capturing the singer’s vulnerability and affection. “Lady, runnin’ down to the riptide” hints at being swept away by powerful emotions, while the desire to be the “left-hand man” reveals a yearning for intimacy and connection. As we hear about singing the words wrong, there’s a raw, relatable imperfection that pulls us into the narrative.
In the verses, Joy spins tales of cinematic escapism, where quitting jobs and cowboy dreams collide with the mundane. The lyrics “this cowboy’s runnin’ from himself” offer a glimpse into the internal struggles of identity and the search for belonging. The juxtaposition of fears—dentists, darkness, and pretty girls—paints a portrait of a conflicted heart seeking solace.
Through the song’s playful yet poignant lines, we uncover the essence of vulnerability masked by bravado. The repeated imagery of the “riptide” and “dark side” conveys the tension between attraction and fear, as if the singer is on the edge of something both thrilling and terrifying.
Ultimately, “Riptide” is a testament to the beautiful chaos of love, where uncertainty and passion dance in an ever-enticing embrace.
Writer(s) of Riptide: James Keogh
