Meaning and Lyrics of Lie 95 by Bartees Strange

Bartees Strange’s “Lie 95” is a poignant exploration of self-discovery, existential questioning, and the tumultuous course of love. With an intricate blend of indie rock, R&B, and electronic textures, Bartees crafts a deeply resonant soundscape, and his lyrical prowess shines through the somber yet emphatic delivery.

Intro: Kacy Hill
Kacy Hill’s brief intro, “And I wanna survive, but I know,” sets a tone of conflicting desires and existential angst. It’s a perfect prelude, foreshadowing the intricate emotional journey laid out by Bartees Strange in the subsequent verses.

Verse 1: Bartees Strange
Bartees opens introspectively: “Sittin’ on the floor, legs crossed in bows / Am I blind to gold, or would it even matter?” Here, he paints a picture of contemplation and possibly meditation. The phrase “blind to gold” suggests a blindness to opportunities or value, while “would it even matter?” hints at an underlying nihilism or discontent, questioning the significance of material or metaphorical wealth in his life. His reflection continues with, “Maybe I could grow, know that I won’t / Am I talking to myself now, or would it even—”, capturing the dichotomy between potential growth and a resigned sense of stagnation. It’s as if he is trapped in a dialogue with himself, doubting the efficacy of his aspirations.

Verse 2: Bartees Strange & Kacy Hill
Verse two expands into a duet, introducing Kacy Hill’s harmonies as Bartees reflects on past experiences: “I know you’ve seen this before, why would I fake it?” This admission of familiarity and authenticity underscores a shared history, perhaps with a lover or a close companion. The imagery of “a Ghost down 95 quaking” invokes a sense of haunting memories, with ’95 possibly alluding to a road traveled together often, fraught with emotional tremors. In the lines “Mining for a heart of gold (And I wanna survive, but I know the price, oh)”, the metaphor of mining highlights a relentless search for purity or truth in love, juxtaposed against the survivalist undertone hinted at in the intro. There’s an acknowledgment of the cost associated with this pursuit.

Chorus: Bartees Strange
The chorus, “I been searching for someone to love / Now we’re folded and I can’t get enough / I feel focused on lifting you up,” exudes a yearning for connection and the paradox of fulfillment and craving. “Folded” evokes imagery of closeness as well as complexity, indicating a relationship that is both intimate and intricate. His focus on “lifting you up” speaks to a desire to support and elevate his partner, signaling a shift from introspective rumination to outward commitment.

Post-Chorus: Bartees Strange & Kacy Hill
The post-chorus reiterates the existential struggle: “And I wanna survive, but I know the price”. Survival here isn’t merely physical but emotional and relational, with an awareness of the toll it takes.

Verse 2: Bartees Strange
Bartees continues with, “And I’m better ’cause it— / Never need another lover / Hold me down, I’ll hold you up”. These lines convey a sense of completion in the relationship, a mutual dependence that fortifies both partners. “Close the blinds, get undercover,” introduces a private, almost secretive element to their bond, suggesting sanctuary or escape from the outside world. The intensifying emotion in “Shit’s so good, I’m dying from it / She’s so good, I’m dying, now I’m crying / Ain’t no need for lying” captures the overwhelming, almost painful beauty of true connection. The visceral reaction of “dying, now I’m crying” signifies the intensity of his feelings, blending pleasure with a sense of vulnerability.

Chorus: Bartees Strange
The repetition of the chorus reinforces the central themes of seeking love and the complexities that come with it. The phrase “folded and I can’t get enough” reappears, emphasizing the addictive nature of deep emotional bonds.

Bartees Strange’s “Lie 95” is essentially a sonic and lyrical tapestry that interweaves themes of love, existential dread, and personal growth. The artistry lies not only in its evocative lyrics but in its production and performance, marrying intimate reflections with grand, sweeping musical elements. This song stands as a testament to Bartees’ ability to navigate and articulate the nuanced landscapes of human emotion, making it a standout in his discography.