Halsey’s powerful new single “safeword” is a fierce, punk-inspired examination of power, freedom, and self-expression, imbued with a bold, edgy vibe.
Halsey’s latest release “safeword” is anything but timid. It's a fiery and unapologetic dive into power dynamics, sexuality, and self-expression that leads her audience into new territory. Following the release of her genre-spanning album The Great Impersonator, Halsey returns with a track that channels raw rebellion, embracing punk rock influences while expressing a kinkier side in both the audio and its visuals.
“safeword” may lack subtlety, but it compensates with sheer intensity. The opening features a punchy, distorted guitar riff that draws you into its riot grrrl-inspired atmosphere. Halsey’s vocals, while still recognizable, carry a more aggressive tone, embodying the punk essence reminiscent of Joan Jett and Kathleen Hanna as she explores a wild side. “I’m not a criminal, I’m just a wild child,” they sing raspily, asserting the rules of engagement. The lyrics are bold, confident, and straightforward, perfectly synchronized with the song’s driving beat.
If Halsey has mastered one thing, it’s blending vulnerability with strength, and “safeword” exemplifies that. The song thrives on explicit kink references, using BDSM as a metaphor for breaking away from societal restrictions. The chorus echoes both an empowerment mantra and a moment for reflection. In BDSM, a “safe word” signals when a boundary has been crossed, but here, it signifies more than control. It reminds us that even in intense scenarios, consent and limits remain paramount, infusing the song’s energy with both excitement and responsibility.
The provocative essence of “safeword” reflects Halsey’s dominance as well as her self-discovery. The accompanying music video intensifies this exploration, showcasing kink culture in its leather-clad, high-heeled splendor. Directed by Lana Jay Lackey, the video begins with a close-up of Halsey in a commanding pose, exuding presence with precise, striking movements. As it progresses, she shifts between dominator and submissive, navigating the interplay of vulnerability and authority. Featuring leather outfits, spanking, bondage, and even Halsey stepping on someone’s throat in towering heels, it’s certainly not work-safe, yet it’s an artistic celebration of kink as a form of liberation.
While Halsey’s confidence radiates throughout the song and video, “safeword” never feels gratuitous. There’s a playful undertone and a touch of humor that mitigate the heavy themes. Halsey embraces the performance with a wink, ensuring that her dominance doesn’t come across as overly aggressive or spiteful. This exploration is not about shock value but rather a deep dive into human experience and its complexities, showcasing how pleasure, control, and freedom interweave.
Halsey’s artistic versatility is vividly displayed in this track, demonstrating her growth as an artist. While her previous album “The Great Impersonator” showcased a broader musical range, this track channels punk rock’s raw spirit. The gritty guitar riff and urgent percussion create an explosive sound that echoes the ‘90s riot grrrl movement, where women in music reclaimed their power through defiance. Halsey’s spirited vocals match that energy, making each line feel like a rallying cry. If this is her response to the polished pop of The Great Impersonator, it’s an exhilarating one that propels her into new territory.
Beyond the music and visuals, “safeword” is part of Halsey’s ongoing journey of self-definition. They’ve long embraced the complexities of identity—be it gender, sexuality, or self-image—and this track continues that exploration. It balances wildness with restraint, dominance with submission, and power with vulnerability. Through these contrasts, Halsey invites listeners into her world, where everything is open for negotiation.
It’s fitting that this song precedes Halsey’s forthcoming “For My Last Trick” tour, which promises to deliver an electrifying live experience filled with energy, visuals, and a diverse setlist. Given the intensity of “safeword,” audiences can anticipate a show that celebrates her new music while offering an immersive journey through the highs and lows of the human experience.
In the broader context of Halsey’s discography, “safeword” represents an exhilarating evolution. It encapsulates the artist’s raw prowess and confidence, wrapped in a striking punk aesthetic. Halsey has always been a boundary-pushing artist, and with “safeword,” she has achieved a thrilling blend of subversion and empowerment. The track and its video beautifully capture the essence of self-expression—audacious, unapologetic, and boldly authentic.
This is Halsey at her most daring
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Halsey’s anthem “safeword” is a powerful, punk-inspired examination of authority, liberation, and self-expression, infused with vibrant, edgy energy.