Ariana Grande has joined Charli XCX on the latest remix of “Sympathy Is a Knife,” a track from Charli’s new album Brat with many thinking some of the song hints about a falling out with Rina Sawayama.
Released on October 11, 2024, this third iteration of the chart-topping album showcases a collection of reimagined tracks featuring a range of artists, including Lorde, Billie Eilish, The 1975, Addison Rae, and Tinashe. This remix not only highlights Ariana’s unique vocal style but also digs deep into the emotional themes of friendship and personal struggle that define the song.
In a recent interview with New York Magazine, Charli revealed the original song’s meaning, emphasizing its roots in her own experiences. “People are gonna think what they want to think. That song is about me and my feelings and my anxiety and the way my brain creates narratives and stories in my head when I feel insecure,” she explained. The song captures the turmoil of self-doubt, anxiety, and the often complicated nature of relationships, all wrapped in Charli’s signature brat pop sound.
Ariana’s contribution to “Sympathy Is a Knife” is marked by her trademark flair, which fans have come to love. The remix includes familiar “Ari-isms,” including her signature “yuh,” reminiscent of her Sweetener and Thank U, Next eras. The collaboration offers a fresh perspective while maintaining the essence of the original track.
The lyrics of the remix touch on a variety of topics, including past friendships and the distortion of quotes in the media. The opening verse sets the tone for the song, with Charli reflecting on the metaphorical “knives” that life throws at her. She sings:
“It’s a knife when you know they’re waitin’ for you to choke / It’s a knife when a journalist does a misquote / It’s a knife when a friend is suddenly steppin’ on your throat.”
These lines reveal Charli’s vulnerability and the pressure she faces in the public eye. The repeated imagery of a knife evokes feelings of betrayal and anxiety, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar emotions.
ADVERTISEMENT
While the specific inspirations behind the lyrics remain open to interpretation, there are hints that point to Charli’s past experiences and relationships. In an interview with Pitchfork in August 2019, she discussed her experience opening for Taylor Swift on the Reputation Stadium Tour. Although she expressed gratitude for the opportunity, she noted that performing in front of a young audience felt alienating, leading her to realize she never wanted to be an opening act again. Her comments were later misinterpreted, prompting her to clarify her statements on social media.
The remix’s exploration of old friendships versus new ones may also reference Charli’s relationship with fellow artist Rina Sawayama. Rina was featured on Charli’s previous album, Crash, and their dynamic has sparked interest among fans. In 2023, Rina made headlines by seemingly calling out The 1975’s Matty Healy for controversial comments he made on The Adam Friedland Show podcast. This backdrop adds another layer to Charli’s lyrics, as many thought the artist would be included on the new remixes for the album.
The singer called out Matty Healy at the Glastonbury festival in 2023 while on stage.
As listeners dive deeper into the lyrics, they may find themselves relating to Charli’s frustrations about being misunderstood or judged based on her past. The line “When somebody says, ‘Charli, I think you’ve totally changed’” captures the sentiment of growing up and evolving as an artist, while still facing scrutiny from both fans and peers. Charli’s retort, “Who the fuck is she?” signifies her rejection of those who cling to a fixed image of her, highlighting her desire for authenticity in a world that often expects conformity.
The remix not only serves as a showcase of talent from both artists but also acts as a commentary on the challenges they face as women in the music industry. The pressures of public perception, the complexities of personal relationships, and the anxieties tied to fame are intricately woven into the fabric of the song.
