Rihanna’s “Kiss It Better” is a sultry tune that delves deep into the realm of relationships, passion, and reconciliation. At its core, it’s about the push and pull of a romantic relationship, where pride clashes with desire. The song captures the moment one is willing to forget past wrongs and longs for intimate moments to make things right. Rihanna seems to touch on themes of longing, vulnerability, and the lengths we go to mend what’s broken in love.
Keen to uncover the emotions and stories hidden in Rihanna’s “Kiss It Better”? Let’s get right to it!
“Kiss It Better” Lyrics Meaning
The chorus, “Kiss it, kiss it better, baby,” feels like Rihanna’s plea for reconciliation. Kissing something better is an age-old remedy for pain, showing that sometimes all one craves is a simple, genuine gesture of love to heal the wounds.
“Been waiting on that sunshine, Boy, I think I need that back” suggests an absence. The ‘sunshine’ represents the happier times, and Rihanna is expressing her yearning to get back to those moments. She indicates that no one else brings that light into her life like her partner does.
In lines like “So I argue, you yell, had to take me back,” we witness the dynamic of their relationship – it’s fiery, filled with disagreements, but there’s an irresistible pull that keeps bringing them back together. The reference to feeling “like crack” further accentuates how addictive and intoxicating their love is.
“Man, fuck your pride, just take it on back, boy” is a direct confrontation of ego. Often in relationships, pride can be a significant barrier. Rihanna’s challenging her partner (and perhaps herself) to put aside their pride and prioritize their love.
The repeated question, “What are you willing to do?” underscores the theme of the song. It’s a challenge, a call for action. Rihanna wants to know if her partner is willing to put in the effort to mend their relationship. The emphasis on “Kiss it better” reinforces the idea that sometimes a simple gesture, filled with love and sincerity, can bridge vast emotional distances.
The Story Behind “Kiss It Better”
Rihanna, throughout her career, has never been one to shy away from showcasing her vulnerability, and “Kiss It Better” is no exception. When the song was released as part of her 2016 album “Anti,” it was quickly noted for its emotional depth and sensuous undertones.
The songwriting team behind this track, including Rihanna, coupled with the evocative instrumentation, perfectly captured the rawness of the emotions. The electric guitar solo, reminiscent of ’80s rock ballads, adds a layer of nostalgia, suggesting a yearning for times gone by.
Rihanna’s life, especially her relationships, has always been under the microscope. While it’s not confirmed who or what the exact inspiration was for “Kiss It Better,” it does mirror many of Rihanna’s publicized relationships. The ups and downs, the passion, and the heartbreaks she’s faced, all resonate with the lyrics. However, Rihanna is an icon because she can channel these personal experiences into music that resonates universally.
“Kiss It Better” is a reflection on the complexities of love, showcasing that in the dance of romance, sometimes all we want is to return to simpler times – where a kiss could make everything better.