Meaning and Lyrics of Dating Tayo by TJ Monterde

TJ Monterde’s “Dating Tayo” is more than just a love song; it’s a poignant exploration of longing, heartache, and the relentless pursuit of lost romance. The title itself, which translates to “The Way We Used to Be,” sets the stage for an emotional ride through the contours of a relationship that once was and the burning desire to rekindle it.

Verse 1 opens with a deeply relatable scenario: “Lagi na lang ganito / Isipan ay gulong-gulo.” Here, Monterde captures the universal plight of a mind in turmoil, constantly haunted by the echoes of a failed relationship. The repetition of being “nabibigo” (disappointed) underlines the cyclical nature of this heartache, suggesting an unending loop of emotional setbacks. Yet, amidst the chaos, the heart’s “sigaw” (cry) remains steadfastly fixated on one person, indicating an unwavering commitment that defies rational thought.

Moving into the Pre-Chorus, Monterde introduces a sense of time’s passage with “Ilang liham na ang sinulat sa’yo? / Ilang luha na rin ang natuyo?” The rhetorical questions serve to quantify the pain endured and the efforts made to salvage what’s left. Handwritten letters and dried tears illustrate a tactile sense of loss and the physical manifestations of emotional labor.

The Chorus hits hard with its yearning for a return to happiness: “Kailan kaya muling makakatawang?” The use of “kailan” (when) repeated multiple times injects a palpable sense of urgency and impatience. Monterde juxtaposes past joy against present sorrow, with lines like “Hindi ko pinipilit, walang lungkot na sumisilip,” conveying the purity of happiness that existed when sadness wasn’t even a fleeting shadow. The mention of “yakap at halik” (hug and kiss) grounds the listener in the physical reality of intimacy now relegated to dreams, emphasizing the chasm between lived experience and memory.

Verse 2 reiterates the speaker’s willingness to endure confusion and uncertainty for a chance at reconciliation: “Handang-handa akong sumalo / ‘Pagkat ikaw pa rin, sigaw ng puso.” This verse mirrors the resilience found in traditional love poetry, echoing themes of undying affection despite adversity. Monterde uses subtler language here, implying that the desire for reconnection outweighs the chaos.

The repetition in the Chorus reinforces the intense longing, building a crescendo of emotional exhaustion and hope. The line “Kailan? Kailan? Kailan? (Kailan?) Kailan?” becomes an incantation, a desperate plea for resolution.

In the Outro, Monterde leaves us with a bittersweet contemplation of future possibilities: “Kailan kaya muling matatamasang?” The song ends on an almost tactile longing to share experiences again, with a poignant twist in “Sa pagdilat ng mata, ika’y hindi lang alaala.” The distinction between fantasy and reality blurs as the speaker yearns for a waking life where the beloved is present once more, not just a figment of nostalgic reverie.

Musically, “Dating Tayo” is underscored by a melody that complements its lyrical melancholy. The arrangement is deliberately stripped-down, allowing Monterde’s emotive voice to take center stage. Acoustic elements intermingle with soft percussive beats, creating an intimate soundscape that tugs at the heartstrings, much like John Mayer’s “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room,” but with a distinctly Pinoy soul.

Overall, “Dating Tayo” resonates deeply within the collective cultural consciousness. It’s a powerful anthem for anyone grappling with the pangs of lost love, serving both as a cathartic release and a gentle reminder of the universal nature of heartache. TJ Monterde’s craftsmanship lies in making the personal universally relatable, and in “Dating Tayo,” he’s hit all the right notes.