Pretty Slowly Lyrics

About “Pretty Slowly”

Pretty Slowly by Benson Boone explores the melancholic aftermath of a relationship that has disintegrated. The song's lyrics reflect Boone's deep sense of loss and introspection as he grapples with the changes in both himself and his former partner. Through reflective verses and a poignant chorus, Boone expresses the slow and painful realization that the relationship has irreversibly fallen apart, leaving both individuals questioning their identity and connection.

• Producer: Evan Blair
• Release Date: August 15, 2024
• Genre: Pop
• Album: BB2*

Song Meanings Explained.

The central theme of Pretty Slowly revolves around the inevitable breakdown of a once-beautiful relationship. Boone captures the slow, creeping decay of love and the resulting emotional turmoil.

[Verse 1]

In the first verse, Boone reminisces about the past, where his partner was "every shade of perfect." However, over time, the relationship's vibrancy fades, symbolized by the "colors blurred." He reflects on how his partner will never love him the way they once did, emphasizing his loneliness and the lingering pain that follows him, especially when he's alone, driving through the Rockies.

[Pre-Chorus]

The pre-chorus introduces the idea that even the best things in life can fall apart. This line is a stark acknowledgment that not all relationships are meant to last, no matter how beautiful they once were.

[Chorus]

The chorus conveys the slow deterioration of the relationship, starting when his partner questioned the changes in him, asking about the "old me." Boone admits he no longer recognizes himself or the relationship, and they are now "falling into pieces." The metaphor of "driving off the edge" at "one thousand miles an hour" illustrates the rapid and uncontrollable nature of their breakup.

[Verse 2]

In the second verse, Boone lies awake at 4 a.m., tormented by the possibility that he caused his partner pain. He seeks reassurance, wanting to know if his partner is okay and whether leaving him was the right choice. He acknowledges that he can't blame them for their decision, despite his lingering sorrow.

[Bridge]

The bridge of the song is a haunting reflection on the remnants of their love. Boone sings about the two lovers that still exist deep within them, yet they no longer recognize who they are. This part of the song underscores the confusion and emotional conflict that persists even after the relationship has ended.

[Outro]

The outro repeats the question, "Who the hell are we?" This repeated line signifies Boone's ongoing struggle to understand how they have changed and what their relationship has become.

Song Theme.

The song centers around the theme of loss and identity. Boone delves into the emotional aftermath of a relationship's collapse, exploring how love can slowly unravel and leave both partners questioning their sense of self. The lyrics convey a sense of nostalgia and regret, while also acknowledging the inevitability of change and the difficulty of moving on.

Technical Analysis.

Pretty Slowly is a pop ballad with a slow tempo that mirrors the gradual disintegration of the relationship described in the lyrics. The song's structure, featuring repetitive elements in the chorus and bridge, reinforces the cyclical nature of Boone's thoughts as he grapples with his emotions. The production by Evan Blair uses minimalist instrumentation, allowing Boone's vocals to take center stage and convey the raw emotion of the lyrics. The use of reverb and echo effects adds to the haunting, reflective atmosphere of the track, emphasizing the theme of lingering memories and unresolved feelings.