STFU! Yeah, it’s a pretty cut and dry acronym needing little to no explanation. That said, just in case you missed it or are totally naïve, STFU stands for shut the fuck up. Charming to the nth degree. Japanese-born British musician Rina Sawayama lays it right out there for the world on “STFU,” a highlight from her 2020 debut album, SAWAYAMA. Basically, for the haters, she has something for you in the form of lyrical middle fingers. Here, Rina atones for those judgmental souls – “You’re preaching even though I’m dead / Like the first time, I’m in my prime” – who’ve previously brought her down and criticized her in the past. How does she do so? Through strength and of course, the F-BOMB!
Adding to her atoning mettle is actually the musical style metal, which works extraordinarily well given theme and emotions. No worries as Sawayama doesn’t force things, namely her voice. She doesn’t scream or shout her lyrics like many metal vocalists, but against the metal-infused backdrop, coupled with fiery lyrics, it’s clear she’s not taking any BS anymore. “How come you don’t respect me,” she asks on the pre-chorus, continuing, “Expecting fantasies to be my reality / Why don’t you just sit down and…” It’s pretty clear what comes next – a big fat can of STFU! After she ensures the swearing is adequate, she adds, “Have you ever thought about taping your big mouth shut / ‘Cause I have, many times, many times.” Mic Drop!
Essentially, Rina Sawayama tells her haters to ‘have several seats.’ She’s done and totally doesn’t “wanna be that girl again.” “STFU” is an incredible fun song, but don’t get it twisted –
There’s actually substance. Sure, STFU will be viewed as utterly obscene by some, but as the proud Japanese LGBTQ+ artist has exhibited resilience after being judged over the years, she’s taking the reins now. So, haters, you can just STFU!
You can learn more about Rina Sawayama here
About The Curator - Brent Faulkner
Slightly eccentric with interests that seem to know no ends, restless ‘Renaissance Man’ is the best way to characterize Brent Faulkner, a native of Kentucky. A certified music educator, multi-instrumentalist, and composer known for his incredibly sharp ear, he lives and breathes music of a variety of styles. In addition to passion for educating, performing, and writing music, he’s equally passionate blogging and writing about it, managing his own site, The Musical Hype (https://themusicalhype.com). When he’s not intensely analyzing music, you can find him reading or watching a movie, reality television or some sporting event.
