Beyond the Weight of Breath | Breathe Again | Joy Oladokun


'Breathe Again', undoubtedly one of the most powerful pieces by the talented 'Joy Oladokun', carries a deep emotional undertone that resonates with its listeners. Her thoughtful lyrics and soul-stirring music engender a visceral journey of introspection and healing, bringing about a universal sense of humanity.
When first listening to 'Breathe Again', one might interpret this song as an anthem for navigating through the complexities of depression and battling personal demons. Oladokun sings about the weariness of life's burdens and the joy and liberation in overcoming them. The refrain, “I just want to breathe again”, rings with an air of desperation and a plea for solace.
Oladokun's skill in intertwining personal experience with social commentary is showcased in this contemporary lyrical masterpiece. The song dives deep into the nuances of despair and our longing for reprieve, emphasizing how struggle and healing are intertwined parts of the human experience. It underscores the cyclical nature of healing, how we can emerge even stronger from moments of intense vulnerability.
An underlying theme running through the song is the universal human journey towards the process of self-love and acceptance. Oladokun's beautiful exploration of her identity, particularly her experiences as a queer, black woman, is instrumental in her songwriting. Much of her music is a memoir of her battles with societal norms, prejudices, and her pursuit of self-love. 'Breathe Again' can be seen as an extension of these themes, as it seems to carry the message of resiliency and the ability to recover, no matter how hard the battle may seem.
Another fascinating aspect of 'Breathe Again' is the intimate combination of Oladokun's raw vocals with a barebones guitar backdrop. This stripped-down arrangement allows listeners to fully connect with her emotional journey. This narrative style invites listeners into intimate spaces, a key characteristic of Oladokun's music.
In conclusion, 'Breathe Again' by Joy Oladokun isn't just a song; it's an experience and a heartfelt expression of her journey to acceptance. It serves as a beacon of hope to anyone struggling with their identity or mental health, reminding us all that it's okay to struggle, and it's okay to need a moment to simply ‘breathe again’. The moving artistry of Oladokun certainly encourages an introspective experience, leaving listeners touched, and more importantly, feeling understood and seen. Therefore, don't just listen to 'Breathe Again', experience it, embrace it and let it remind you that there will always be a light at the end of the tunnel.
