The song "Drowning" by Justin Stone explores the theme of emotional detachment and the struggles of maintaining relationships while pursuing a career in music. The lyrics depict the artist feeling overwhelmed and needing some space to process his thoughts and emotions. The opening lines, "Drowning out my thoughts, I might need some space, too," suggest that the artist is mentally drowning or feeling overwhelmed by his own thoughts and emotions. He recognizes that he needs some distance or personal space to handle these feelings. The following lines, "She was done to fuck so you know I came through, Always been the one that she always ran back to," imply that the artist has a casual sexual relationship with someone who always relies on him emotionally. Despite their casual arrangement, the person consistently seeks him out for comfort and support. The lines "Keep me leveled out, keep me leveled out" indicate that this person helps the artist maintain some emotional stability amidst the chaos of his lifestyle. In the context of the song, they serve as a reminder of the importance of having someone to lean on during difficult times. The lyrics also touch upon the artist's life on the road, stating, "On tour things are wild, that's the use, I just need an out, come back with a hit, that's true." This suggests that being on tour and constantly creating music can be emotionally draining, and the artist seeks an escape or outlet through his music. The lines "Told that groupie once I'm done you gotta go, that's just rules" reveal the artist's commitment to maintaining boundaries and not becoming emotionally involved with fans or groupies. He acknowledges that it may be harsh to dismiss them afterward, but it is a necessary rule for him. As the song progresses, the artist acknowledges that he may have made mistakes in his past relationships. He confesses to venting about his experiences and then abruptly leaving, saying, "Sorry, gotta go, my Uber bouta come." This suggests a pattern of emotionally disconnecting after physical intimacy. The lyrics also hint at the artist's struggle with monogamy and commitment, indicating that he moves on quickly to the next person. However, he still keeps in touch with his past partners when he returns to their city, suggesting a cycle of emotional involvement and detachment. Overall, the song "Drowning" delves into the challenges an artist faces when trying to balance personal relationships and a demanding career. It speaks to the need for personal space, emotional stability, and the artist's commitment to maintaining boundaries while exploring his experiences of emotional detachment and fleeting connections.
