“What’s it like to be so big and strong / And so buff? / Everything I’m not / But could I still be a hunk to you?” Insecurity and vulnerability are two things that far too infrequently associated with men. Masculinity can definitely be toxic and discourage the expression of genuine emotions. Troye Sivan takes things a step further. The openly gay South African/Australian pop singer unleashes ‘a lot to unpack’ on “STUD,” a highlight from his 2020 EP, In a Dream. Essentially on “STUD”, he seeks to atone for insecurity, self-esteem issues, and of course those ‘matters of the heart.’
On the surface level, “STUD” finds Sivan admiring the perfect specimen. “You got all the muscles and features I want,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “And I want what I want my love.” The lust is real for Sivan, but also, there’s the letdown of (1) not being able to be with this person let alone (2) be this person. At the top, the lyrics highlighted touch on body dysmorphia, which affects all men but particularly gay men. Troye wants to connect with this Adonis, but he also feels inferior because he’s not as ‘perfect’ as far as physique is concerned.
There’s more though. Contextually, In a Dream (EP) finds Sivan exploring heartbreak. That naturally adds feelings of isolation. The lust, hence, is a reaction to a desiring intimacy. Naturally, “STUD” explores this as well as Troye is willing to hook up with someone he probably shouldn’t, compromising himself: “Taking the fun out of fucks / Searching for something I’m not.” In the process of this encounter, self-esteem still plagues the singer as he has to ask about his worthiness: “You’re into this right? / We should do this right? / You can make my night…”
“STUD” adds to an ever-growing collection of meaningful LGBTQ+ songs. That being said, this record transcends one community – it’s truly relatable to everyone. The self-esteem angle alone is a shared experience.
You can learn more about Troye Sivan 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.
