When Longing Meets Heartache | Not Allowed | TV Girl

The song "Not Allowed" by indie pop band TV Girl is a thought-provoking piece of art that uses candid lyrics, infectious melodies, and vintage-style production to explore complex feelings of unrequited love. The song, from their 2014 album "French Exit," is an exploration of love's restrictions, frustrations, and illusions.

In essence, "Not Allowed" dives deep into the profound challenges of loving someone who doesn't reciprocate those feelings. Throughout the song, the lyricist portrays his deep yearning for someone that he knows he's "not allowed" to love because she does not share the same sentiments. This timeless theme resonates with many, especially those who have experienced the pain of one-sided affection.

Brad Petering, the lead singer, takes listeners on a journey into his world, recounting real and fictitious experiences. As the lyrical storyteller, his voice carries the song, relaying the narrative in a dispassionate and descriptive tone that contrasts with the emotional content, drawing listeners into the captivating world of "Not Allowed."

Musically, "Not Allowed" has a bright vibe, which incongruously juxtaposes the melancholic lyrics. This bold aesthetic choice by TV Girl allows the track to be as danceable as it is introspective. Its infectious rhythm and repetitive melody ensures that the story of the song remains in the listener's mind long after it ends.

TV Girl's "Not Allowed" samples Todd Rundgren's "Hello, It's Me" which adds an extra layer of complexity to the track. This clever use of sampling calls back to a bygone era and draws parallels between the band's contemporary experiences and the universal, timeless nature of both love and heartbreak. It highlights that, regardless of the era, the feelings of unrequited love and longing remain a relatable human experience.

The earnest lyrics beautifully articulate the contradiction of wanting to be with someone who doesn't feel the same. Lines like “And now you need someone, but it’s not me you’re thinking of. You've got your life going on, it seems you're having fun. While I'm alone with my thoughts, quite, thinking of you a lot.”, encapsulate an ocean of emotions that many listeners will find relatable.

Overall, "Not Allowed" by TV Girl is much more than a song: it is a conversation on human emotions underpinned by a catchy melody and thought-provoking lyrics. Whether you're new to TV Girl or a longtime fan, "Not Allowed" provides an insightful exploration of complex feelings, proving that art that tackles heartache can also be glitteringly pop and dance-worthy.