Introduction
JENNIE’s "Start A War," the third track from her debut album Ruby, brings a softer, more introspective side to her sound. Departing from the more upbeat, aggressive elements that have defined much of her career, this track is mellow and slow-paced, offering a different vibe. The production is minimalist yet rich, with the layering of JENNIE’s own voice in gang vocals, creating an emotional atmosphere that complements the song’s lyrical theme of protection and loyalty. The subtlety in the music helps to convey the depth of her emotions, adding a reflective layer to the song's message.
A Shift in Style
The track stands out with its combination of K-pop flair and a more experimental, genre-blending approach to the vocals. While it retains the signature smoothness and precision of JENNIE’s style, "Start A War" feels more in line with an artist like SZA, known for her experimental and soulful production choices. The vocals in this track are ethereal, almost haunting, in their delivery, weaving through the production with a calm yet powerful energy. The song features a more subdued yet undeniable groove, and the infectious slap in the beat provides a rhythmic contrast to the otherwise somber tone.
Lyrics and Themes
Lyrically, "Start A War" is deeply personal, exploring themes of unconditional love and the lengths one would go to protect the people they care about. JENNIE herself has shared that the inspiration behind the track revolves around wanting to protect someone, whether that be family, friends, or a romantic partner. The chorus, where she repeatedly asserts "I’ll start a war" for the one she loves, captures the essence of selflessness and devotion. It’s a statement of commitment, a reminder of the fierce loyalty JENNIE is willing to give, despite the ups and downs of relationships.
Emotional Depth and Vulnerability
The track’s verses further explore this idea, with JENNIE reflecting on the responsibility that love entails. The line "love, it hold responsibility" resonates deeply, conveying the weight of her commitment. There's a vulnerability in the lyrics, especially as she describes the emotional toll that comes with caring for someone, "Feelin' like the first hit that you take in the morning" suggests that love is both invigorating and sometimes overwhelming. JENNIE’s delivery here is confident, yet tender, showcasing a side of her artistry that’s both powerful and introspective.
JENNIE Start A War ReviewÂ
In conclusion, "Start A War" is a striking track that allows JENNIE to showcase her growth as an artist, venturing into a sound and emotional depth that is new for her. While it maintains elements of the K-pop genre, the song blends different styles, making it feel more personal and experimental. The song's introspective lyrics and lush production create an atmosphere that invites listeners to connect with the vulnerability and strength of the message. As a part of Ruby, "Start A War" establishes JENNIE not just as a global pop star but as an artist unafraid to explore new sonic and emotional territories.
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JENNIE Start A War Lyrics Meaning ExplainedÂ
The meaning of "Start A War" by JENNIE is rooted in fierce loyalty and the protective nature that comes with love. In this track, JENNIE expresses her willingness to defend and fight for the people she cares about, whether it’s a romantic partner, family, or friends. The song highlights the emotional depth of commitment, where she’s not afraid to confront challenges and external forces that threaten her relationships. Through powerful lyrics and a bold, intense delivery, JENNIE emphasizes that love comes with the responsibility to protect and stand by those you cherish, no matter the cost.
Verse 1:
In the opening verse, JENNIE establishes her unwavering loyalty and commitment. The line "you know for me, there's no breaking point" suggests that she is resolute and will not give up, no matter the challenges. She emphasizes her protective nature, saying, "I'm gon' protect what's mine only," indicating that she is dedicated to safeguarding what she cares about. The phrase "You know the role you playing" implies a mutual understanding between her and the other person involved, highlighting that both parties have clear roles and responsibilities within the relationship.
Pre-Chorus:
In the pre-chorus, JENNIE acknowledges the potential issues within the relationship by saying, "I'm not saying we ain't got problems," but she clarifies that despite these issues, her loyalty remains unshaken. "Know we could both be on one" further suggests that conflicts can arise, but she reassures her partner that, if anyone tries to disrupt their bond, she will fight for them. The repetition of "I'ma gon' try for you, I fight for you, go off for you" emphasizes her readiness to defend her loved one at any cost. The declaration "I start a war" serves as a metaphor for her willingness to go to great lengths to protect their relationship from external threats.
Chorus:
The chorus continues to assert JENNIE's unwavering commitment. "Ever since the day you locked in" symbolizes a committed, exclusive relationship, and JENNIE expresses that she’s been loyal since that moment. By saying, "I was gonna be your down bitch," she conveys that she's a ride-or-die partner, fully dedicated to supporting and standing by her lover. The line "If I need to start a war" reinforces her willingness to take drastic action, underscoring the intensity of her devotion. The repetition of "I start a war" in the chorus, along with the triumphant "yeah, yeah, yeah," further amplifies her fierce protective nature.
Verse 2:
In the second verse, JENNIE reflects on the responsibility that love entails. "Love, it hold responsibility" acknowledges that love isn’t just about feelings, but also about mutual support and accountability. "Hold you down, you hold me down, that's just how we been" shows that their relationship is built on a strong foundation of reciprocal loyalty. The line "Feelin' like the first hit that you take in the morning" suggests that love is both refreshing and overwhelming, providing a metaphor for the invigorating, energizing feeling of being in love. "Baby, you a Token" could symbolize how valuable and irreplaceable her partner is. JENNIE continues, emphasizing her readiness to protect her partner, "I could bring the heat if I needed to," though she clarifies that she's not seeking conflict. Instead, "But you know I'ma prove it" shows that she’s willing to take action if necessary to defend her loved one.
Pre-Chorus (Repeated):
The repeated pre-chorus serves to further emphasize JENNIE’s dedication to her partner. She acknowledges that while no relationship is perfect and problems may arise, she will always be there to protect and fight for the person she loves. The repetition of "I'ma gon' try for you, I fight for you, go off for you" reinforces the depth of her commitment and her willingness to go to extreme lengths to preserve the relationship.
Outro:
The outro features the repetition of the line "Yeah, yeah, you know I'll start a war," reinforcing the track’s central message of fierce loyalty and protection. The repetition here acts as a final, bold affirmation of JENNIE’s determination to do whatever it takes to defend what matters to her. The repeated refrain drives home the song's theme of unconditional love and the fierce lengths one would go to for those they care about.
JENNIE Start A War Lyrics
[Verse 1]
You know for me, there's no breaking point
Yeah, I'ma be here through all that noise
I'm gon' protect what's mine only
You know the role you playing
[Pre-Chorus]
I'm not saying we ain't got problems
Know we could both be on one
But if somebody try to start some
I'ma gon' try for you, I fight for you, go off for you
I start a war
[Chorus]
Ever since the day you locked in
I was gonna be your down bitch
If I need to start a war
I'ma gon' try for you, I fight for you, go off for you
I start a war
Yeah, yeah, yeah
[Verse 2]
'Cause love, it hold responsibility
Hold you down, you hold me down, that's just how we been (Rollin')
Feelin' like the first hit that you take in the (Morning)
Baby, you a (Token)
And I think I've grown 'til somebody come for you (Ooh)
I could bring the heat if I needed to (To)
It ain't like I'll do it, but you know I'ma prove it
Oh, if I need to do anything for you
[Pre-Chorus]
I'm not saying we ain't got problems
Know we could both be on one
But if somebody try to start some
I'ma gon' try for you, I fight for you, go off for you
I start a war
[Chorus]
Ever since the day you locked in
I was gonna be your down bitch
If I need to start a war
I'ma gon' try for you, I fight for you, go off for you
I start a war
[Outro]
Yeah, yeah, you know I'll start a war
Yeah, yeah, you know I'll start a war
Yeah, yeah, you know I'll start a war
Yeah, yeah, you know I'll start a war