"Chokehold" by Jeris Johnson is a song that explores a toxic and addictive relationship. The lyrics depict a person who is captivated by their partner and unable to break free from the intense hold they have over them. The song starts off with the protagonist acknowledging that the person they are involved with sets a fast and unstoppable pace, making it difficult for them to slow down or escape. They feel trapped in a metaphorical steel cage, unable to find a way out. Despite feeling the pressure and being pushed further, they are unable to resist and keep going along with the intense relationship. The protagonist experiences a mix of intense pleasure and pain from their partner. They describe feeling sick from the pleasure and darkness coursing through their veins. The person has a tight grip on their emotional well-being, as symbolized by white knuckles on their chain. They are willing to dance with death just to feel something, illustrating the extreme and dangerous nature of their relationship. Despite recognizing the toxicity of the situation, the protagonist can't break free. They hope their partner never lets go because they have become addicted to the pain and pleasure they bring. The line, "I can't tell if it's Hell or it's heavenly" emphasizes the confusing and unpredictable nature of their relationship. They don't care what the outcome may be, even if it leads to their own demise. The protagonist describes their partner as draining their energy, but they can't resist and continue to be consumed by the relationship. They feel like they are dying while being held close by their partner, trapped in a figurative chokehold. Overall, "Chokehold" dives deep into the dark and addictive nature of a toxic relationship, where the protagonist finds themselves unable to escape the hold of their partner despite the harmful effects it has on their well-being.
