Introduction: A Club Anthem with Bold Energy
"With The IE (Way Up)" from JENNIE's album Ruby brings a bold energy that blends heavy bass and funky instrumentals, making it an undeniable club anthem. From the opening notes, the track's infectious rhythm grabs attention, thanks to its pulsating beats and JENNIE's signature breathy, reverberated vocals. Her rap style fits seamlessly over the energetic backdrop, showcasing her versatility as both a singer and rapper. JENNIE's ability to navigate through the energetic beat with such ease highlights her knack for blending different genres, and this track is no exception.
Dynamic Performance: Versatility and Experimentation
One of the standout features of the song is JENNIE's dynamic presence. The way she delivers her lines—spanning from smooth, sultry vocals to rapid-fire rapping—adds depth and excitement. The track thrives on this fluidity, as JENNIE seamlessly experiments with various elements. Her inclination to push boundaries is evident, as she incorporates dance-worthy rhythms alongside a powerful narrative. The tension between the energetic beats and her laid-back yet commanding delivery makes for a compelling contrast that keeps listeners hooked.
Clever Sampling: A Nod to "Jenny from the Block"
"With The IE (Way Up)" also draws attention for its smart use of sampling. The song cleverly incorporates the 2002 hit "Jenny from the Block" by Jennifer Lopez, adding a nostalgic flair while paying homage to the original. The title’s reference to "IE" plays into JENNIE’s own identity, a subtle but effective nod to her name, further connecting her personal brand with the larger musical narrative. This intertextuality gives the song an added layer of depth, as listeners can appreciate the references while enjoying a fresh interpretation of a classic.
Lyrical Themes: Confidence and Resilience
The lyrics in the chorus, with lines like "Way up, all the way up," perfectly match the high-energy vibe of the track. The repetition of "shots fire on my way up, bulletproof glass when I'm riding through" echoes themes of resilience and confidence, aligning with the song's overall message of self-assurance. The imagery in the verses, particularly the metaphor of being a "villain in a scary coat" and "target on my name," reflects a defiant attitude toward critics and those who try to bring her down. This boldness resonates throughout the song, solidifying JENNIE’s stance as both a fearless artist and individual.
A Standout Track from Ruby
"With The IE (Way Up)" is a perfect example of JENNIE’s evolving artistry and ability to create tracks that are not only sonically captivating but also brimming with personality. Her experimentation with dance elements, combined with her unique vocal delivery and thoughtful lyricism, makes this track a standout on Ruby. The fusion of club-ready beats, sharp rapping, and self-empowerment themes will undoubtedly have listeners hitting repeat and keeping JENNIE's energy at "way up" for a long time to come.
Listen to JENNIE With The IE (Way Up)
JENNIE With The IE (Way Up) Lyrics Meaning Explained
The meaning of With The IE (Way Up) by JENNIE is an anthem of defiance, empowerment, and resilience in the face of societal expectations and judgment. The song portrays JENNIE's journey of rising above the constant scrutiny that comes with being a powerful figure in the K-pop industry. Through bold imagery and metaphor, she addresses the hypocrisy of those who criticize her for daring to be different, all while celebrating her own individuality and confidence. The song serves as both a personal expression of strength and a broader commentary on the pressures of fame, with JENNIE unapologetically asserting her place at the top despite the obstacles in her path.
Refrain
In the refrain, the repeated vocalizations "(Ah, uh, ah, uh)" create a sense of anticipation and playfulness. The line "Party in the back room" suggests an exclusive, intimate setting, contrasting with the outward-facing bravado of the song. The phrase "I done left it in the restroom" could signify leaving behind baggage or expectations, representing a release of tension. The inclusion of "Incoming" as the producer tag adds excitement and buildup, while "Now my attitude is yeah, yeah, yeah" reflects a shift in confidence and self-assurance.
Chorus
The chorus emphasizes elevation both literally and metaphorically. "Way up, all the way up" symbolizes reaching new heights of success and power, while "shimmy, shimmy, yeah" captures a carefree attitude and celebration. The line "Shots fire on my way up" indicates that despite facing criticism or danger, the artist is undeterred. The mention of "bulletproof glass" suggests resilience, symbolizing the ability to withstand external pressures. The repetition of "I won’t let it go" reinforces the determination to remain on top and not be swayed by obstacles.
Verse 1
In the first verse, the line "No more cycles on your merry-go" suggests a rejection of repetitive, predictable patterns in life. "Straight line's a hate crime" symbolizes how society punishes deviation from rigid norms, exaggerating how harshly others react to nonconformity. Calling herself a "villain in a scary coat," the artist critiques how she is unfairly perceived as problematic for simply being different. The "sea of judgment" refers to the overwhelming criticism faced, but she remains unfazed as she "floats" above it. The metaphor of a "wave-chopping motor-boat" portrays the artist navigating through chaos confidently. Finally, "Target on my name, but your aim's way off" expresses the hypocrisy of others, who judge her even when their perspective is flawed.
Verse 2
In the second verse, "Rooftop when I party, turnt like a Harley" contrasts the freedom of partying in an exclusive, elevated space with the rebellious spirit of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, symbolizing individualism and American culture. "Sorry not sorry" reflects a confident and unapologetic attitude. The line "Shadows all around me close and they crowd me" points to the growing pressure from external expectations as her fame increases. The phrase "Breathe, I can hardly" alludes to the anxiety the artist has publicly discussed. "It seems I got a chokehold on 'em" signifies her influence, but it comes with the burden of scrutiny, as people criticize her for doing things that others might get away with. "Gave you too much and it's giving spoiled rotten" indicates overexposure, where her efforts are met with dissatisfaction. Finally, the mention of being a "trending topic" shows the emotional toll that constant attention and judgment take on the artist.
Bridge
The bridge plays with contrasts, as shown in the line "Why a killer never looked so sweet?" The artist highlights her ability to embody both strength and sweetness, breaking down traditional perceptions of power. "I'm hot cold, gelato" symbolizes her duality—appearing cool and sweet but with a cold edge beneath. "An angel, diablo" further reflects the balance between light and dark. Despite this complex nature, she asserts "I'm on one, I'm calm though," demonstrating her ability to control her emotions and actions. The playful lines "Come, give me a kiss, Get up out my face" show confidence and assertiveness, indicating that she is unapologetically in control of her personal space and narrative.
Outro
The outro repeats "Set a fire now, said I want it now," emphasizing the artist's relentless pursuit of her desires. The line "Spectators 'round hear the siren sound" points to the attention and spectacle that follows her, reinforcing the theme of being constantly in the spotlight. This final imagery leaves a sense of self-assurance and readiness to face any challenge, regardless of the external pressures and criticism that come with being in the public eye.
With The IE Meaning
The lyrics of "With The IE (Way Up)" explore themes of defiance, resilience, and confidence. The artist continually challenges societal norms and expectations, navigating criticism while embracing her dual nature. She remains unapologetically herself, making the song a powerful anthem of personal empowerment and the strength to rise above external pressures.
JENNIE With The IE (Way Up) Lyrics
[Refrain]
(Ah, uh, ah, uh)
Are you? Are you?
(Ah, uh, ah, uh)
Party in the back room
(Ah, uh, ah, uh)
I done left it in the restroom (Incoming)
(Ah, uh, ah, uh)
Now my attitude is yeah, yeah, yeah
[Chorus]
Way up, all the way up
Shimmy, shimmy, yeah, I'ma let it go
Shots fire on my way up
Bulletproof glass when I'm riding through
Way up, all the way up
Gimme, gimme that, I won't let it go
Shots fire on my way up
Bulletproof glass when I'm riding through
[Verse 1]
No more cycles on your merry-go
Straight line's a hate crime, villain in a scary coat
Your fuckin' sea of judgment, watch her, there she floats
Nasty, flashy, wave-chopping motor-boat
Target on my name, but your aim's way off
Why are you evaluating me on your day off?
Set a fire now, said I want it now, uh-huh
Spectators 'round hear the siren sound
[Chorus]
Way up, all the way up
Shimy, shimy, yeah, I'ma let it go
Shots fire on my way up
Bulletproof glass when I'm riding through
Way up, all the way up
Gimme, gimme that, I won't let it go
Shots fire on my way up
Bulletproof glass when I'm riding through
[Verse 2]
Rooftop when I party, turnt like a Harley
Sorry not sorry, yeah
Shadows all around me close and they crowd me
Breathe, I can hardly (Ah)
It seems I got a chokehold on 'em
Everybody's cool, but when I do it I'm the problem
Gave you too much and it's giving spoiled rotten
Got me stressed out being the trending topic
[Bridge]
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah (Yeah, yeah, watch me)
Why a killer never looked so sweet?
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah (I'm so, set a fire now, set 'em all off uh-huh)
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah (Spectators 'round hear the siren sound)
I'm hot cold, gelatto
An angel, diablo
I'm on one, I'm calm though
Come, give me a kiss
Get up out my face, yeah, yeah, yeah
[Refrain]
(Ah, uh, ah, uh)
Are you? Are you?
(Ah, uh, ah, uh)
Party in the back room
(Ah, uh, ah, uh)
I done left you in the restroom
(Ah, uh, ah, uh)
Now my attitude is yeah, yeah, yeah
[Chorus]
Way up, all the way up
Shimy, shimy, yeah, I'ma let it go
Shots fire on my way up
Bulletproof glass when I'm riding through
Way up, all the way up
Gimme, gimme that, I won't let it go
Shots fire on my way up (Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)
Bulletproof glass when I'm riding through
[Outro]
Yeah, yeah, ah
Set a fire now, said I want it now, uh-huh
Spectators 'round hear the siren sound
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