I think Michael missed (and maybe others did too because I haven't seen people mention it) that the little girl watching her mom and dad fight is the same as the young woman who is fighting with her boyfriend in the house where there's no kid watching. They're two different fights. NF shows how she's carried on the baggage and negativity from being a kid who watched her mom and her dad/mom's boyfriend (idk) fight into her own relationships in her adulthood by simultaneously showing clips of her fighting with her boyfriend and her watching her mom fight with her own (her mom's) boyfriend (or husband idk). She's carried everything from her past into her future, because she's doesn't know what she'd be like if she was just... normal... happy. The turmoil is all she's known from her mom. The birthday scene gives us insight into the girls deepest desires. She blows the candles, and we're treated to scenes of her mom playing with her - she wished for happiness and a peaceful relationship with her mom. I'd say she wished for happiness altogether. She drinks like her mom, she smokes like her mom, and she has relationship issues like her mom. In the scene where she looks at the mirror, she even sees her mom. She realizes that she has become her mom and she also realizes that perhaps all these problems stem from a distorted relationship with/perception of/lessons from her mom. She can't imagine who she would be if she was happy, but at the end she makes the brave decision to try. She goes back to the same house where it all started; to meet her mom and maybe somehow, begin the journey toward being "Happy".
Thanks Paul! This is a beautiful comment. Gave me more insight into the meaning behind the videos. BTW, your Igbo (Nigerian) surname is cool! I have a couple of Nnaji friends, and who knows, you might be related to them! It's exciting to see a Nigerian who follows NF. (I'm sorry if my assumptions about your country of origin is wrong, but I highly doubt it is). Have a nice day Paul!
@@vicadegboye684 You're definitely not wrong about my origin lol. Yeah, I'm Nigerian and Igbo. And yes, I've followed NF. A close friend played one of his songs to me in high school - I think it was 3 am - and I've followed and loved his music ever since! Yeah, it's a breath of fresh air to find a Nigerian who follows NF too! When it comes to NF's music, the only people I'm usually able to talk to are my siblings and the friend who introduced me to it. I recently just met someone at school who listens to him too and I was soooo happy. Nice meeting you Vic!
So proud of NF. His music has evolved over time. He’s amazing at storytelling. And he is so honest about Hollywood and his journey with God and his mental health. He’s one of few artists still making what you would call art.
Why would you be proud of NF? Pride is a feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction as a result of one's own achievements. So, what, exactly is YOUR achievement within NF's music or career that would make you proud?
This song is relatable to everyone it's part of being human. As a Christian I'll add that I don't think releasing this music video on Good Friday was a coincidence. The video reminded me of Psalms chapter 30, especially 30.5 that plays out in the original video when it changes at the 3:05 timestamp. Michael paused it when the tone changed but catches the moment @7:30 when we see the light of a new day. Reminds me of Psalms 30:5 "For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning"
just noticed something, right before her older self reflects back on her birthday when she was sad she was crying out to God, this is a prayer by the way, and she see he Mom in white in the mirror (which means Hope) and then she reflects on the positive times with her Mom, and sees her past from a different perspective. This is especially powerful when we consider how NF's own Mom dies of a drug overdose and in the song, How Could You Leave Us he says he hasn't forgiven her yet. In the Intro song Hope NF tells us he has forgiven her. Here we see it play out, the Hope allowed NF to look back at his past and think about all the good times he had with his Mom. He has a different perspective. We see that even more in his song, Moma from this same project. Loved your reaction.
Spot on. Most people say it’s her wishing for the happy moments. When actually it’s her deciding that there were already good moments and she’s gonna focus on that instead 👍
This whole song is just about breaking that cycle of the dysfunctional family. We all need to reach out to those kids and give them your time, show you care, and let them see how it IS possible to be happy. This is what God calls us to do.
I was introduced to NF with I’ll keep on and then I have listened to Mansions many many times. It feels like he’s back to having conversations with God through his music and it’s truly beautiful to see him continue to work these things out through prayer and music
Once again, Michael missed it. This is why his producers keep putting NF in front of him. NF is a Christian. This beautiful song is a prayer to God and how we all struggle when all we need to do is ask for help. Maybe one day Michael will look back and realize it, but right now he seems to misread NF’s lyrics because he assumes NF is among the lost.
To be fair, NF says he's Christian and goes to church but he may not have a true, saving relationship with Jesus... we don't fully know his relationship with Jesus, except that it's a bit strained according to this song....
Christianity is not an exclusive club where Christian music must be relatable only to Christians. A Christian's job is to save non Christians by relating to them. Coming from a non Christian Knowles interpretation makes sense and relates, especially to those who have fallen away.
I like NF and find he can reach the masses with his music, and the message. Biblically speaking this video was released on Good Friday and in the original video it reminds me of psalms chapter 30 especially the verse 30.5. The 3:05 time stamp shows that joy comes in the morning. Happiness isn't the same as joy and it's not something we're promised. Happiness is not a destination it's a feeling that comes and goes.
@@Fc3s808 I mean... it kinda is exclusive e by definition. Of course everyone is welcome to be saved, but you do have to actually commit your soul exclusively to Jesus. It's exclusive in the sense that some people are not Christian. But I agree with you about NF's music being relatable to everyone... "This music's not just for people who sit in the pews and pray at the churches. Nah, I won't reject it. I don't expect everyone to respect it. I don't expect you to get my perspective."
@@ohifonlyx33 agreed. I'd add his grandfather was the pastor of the church when he was growing up. It's hard being related to your pastor. People in church are the most judgmental of all from my experience. My younger cousin struggled a lot with being labeled the pastor's daughter. Imagine how it would feel to be treated differently once people find out your dad is a pastor, your identity is tied to the stereotypes. People expected her to be perfect and judged her based on unrealistic expectations they didn't have for themselves. The same people judging her were no where to be found when she went through a rebellious phase and or when she fell on hard times. Christians who act like they are better than others isn't a good look. Being human is reality and not one of us is perfect. Nate makes music everyone can relate to believers and non believers alike.
I might never say this again of Michael, but I think the song and video is deeper than he even acknowledges... I feel like Michael missed the cycle of trauma we see, the influence of family, and the way the little girl grew up and wanted to break out of the cycle... and the change at the end, towards becoming happy.
Sometimes he focuses soo much on a certain perspective that he misses the more obvious one, I think most of us of an older generation has seen many families like that and what it does to the children…
"“I don't know why, but I feel more comfortable living in my agony watching my self-esteem go up in flames, acting like I don't care what anyone else thinks… The truth is I need help, but I just can't imagine who I'd be if I was happy”
Dear God..... I love the fact that the whole song is a prayer. I can no longer live in my agony is the resolution he has at the end, just like the kid as she is older, reaching back out to her mom. He is reaching back out to God...as he says, first time in a couple years.
I think the visuals are overlooked here- I’m fairly certain this shows the story of how a mother abused cigarettes in front of a child and did some bad things, and the child grew up to be sad and resent her mother, but in the process she kind of ended up like her, but at the end she thought of all the good memories she had too and went to forgive her mother.
This seems to really miss the point of the song from my perspective, or at best seems to be a really surface level interpretation. Within the context of the rest of the album and the rest of the discography it seems to have a much deeper meaning. NF’s music up to this point has been defined by how he’s been emotionally and psychologically anchored by the traumas of his youth. This album and this song are steps towards breaking free from those shackles that have bound him. This song is pretty clearly the existential step where he basically says “if I step forward and step out of my Trauma, who am I? My trauma is so much of who I am, and how I understand my place in this world. What does it mean to be me if I break free from that?” His first step is to ask this question. After that he is in a place where he can really forgive (listen to the song mama) so that he can raise his son without passing his traumas on. Michael’s generalized interpretation really neglects the richness and meaningfulness of what this song actually represents.
Really? I love NF so I watch most people’s reactions but Michaels aren’t that great. He usually assumes NF is on drugs or what not. If he would learn the backstory it would be much better.
He was way off in this Video. Its hard for him to understand this video i think. As someone who went through the exact samething i can tell you that there was nothing ambiguous about it.
That "IF" is a VERY important tonal shift in the backend of the song. Knox Hill pointed it out in his breakdown. The way I see it is that despite all the bad that she was faced with and what she witnessed growing up, she also CHOSE to see the GOOD in life, the HAPPY moments sprinkled through-out all the bad times. That's what makes the video and song so special. It's something everybody can really relate to.
@@hhoi8225 and there's nothing wrong with zero research and lots of assumptions. I don't need to research an artist or song to know how it and the lyrics and the music video feels to me or how it makes me think. It's supposed to hit everyone differently.
7:23 I really like this part of the song, where at the end we're met with an inflection point to the general tone; totally shifting from how it's been previously, and I really like how it was delivered; building the tension - how his lyrics are sorta slowed down and held out, "I can't keep on living... *like* ," and then it's released into positivity and hope.
speaking of ¨released into positivity and hope¨ I wouldn't really agree. Everything past that mirror shot is an imagination of her thinking how it could have been, how she could've raised her daughter. It's not happening in real time, just in her head. Then at the very end when she knocks on that door, it's her mother who she was raised with poorly which also made the person knocking raise her child poorly so it's a big roller coaster of emotions.
@@ExsPert Actually, I think the little girl and the younger woman are supposed to be the same person, with the timeline shifting back & forth. It's the same mom in both timelines. The shift to happiness occurs (apparently in her imagination, as you said) when she makes a wish on her birthday candles.
@@mayLibertyprevail1a Oh really, I assumed the younger girl grew up with the neglecting mother, then the younger girl also grows up to neglect her daughter and at the end the daughter meets her mother.
Been listening to NF for about two weeks now. It’s nice actually having lyrics to relate to. But the style of the ballads and raps are just hypnotically good.
Looking back a couple months since I've heard this song, it helped me get back on the path to God. For years, I was so consumed in my self-hatred that I distanced myself from Him. But seeing NF was about to release this song, I was really excited for it and it helped me finally face my relationship with Him once I heard it. I wasn't exactly how the song describes, "...too proud to open up and ask ya, To pick me up and pull me out this hole I'm trapped in," I opened up to just about everyone, including Him, hoping He or someone would pull me out that hole, but I was too afraid of actually being happy. For years misery was all I'd known and I felt comfort in it. My prayers and hopes were surface-level. I now realize that God couldn't help me because it was I who wouldn't let Him. This song really put me on the right track towards reconciling with Him and I'd say it's my favorite song ever. I'm glad to finally be on track towards being Happy.
As someone who existed in a state depression and nihilism for years, this hits deep… I clung to my unhappiness and self loathing as an identity, It started so early in my childhood that I really didn’t know WHO I was without that baggage to cling to. It was impossible to feel clean, restored, or renewed no mater how many times I went to church or Bible study, there was always a nagging feeling of worthlessness and the knowledge that I would just spiral back into sorrow like I always do. The thought of “I wonder who I would be if I was happy” is something I’ve asked myself for a very long time. It was February 28th that I was sitting in my desk chair and listening to worship music feeling empty… I called out to God and asked him to renew my faith, and help me conquer my anxiety and depression. It hasn’t been long, but I’m finally seeing the woman I can be now that I am pursuing God fully and I can say truthfully that my depression is gone, and my anxiety is lessened. These burdens I’ve carried for so long have left me, and I am clinging to my identity in Christ, not my identity as damaged goods
I really feel like anyone who joins the NF journey this late in time really needs to start from the beginning to fully understand and truly appreciate his journey and story through his storytelling album to album
You have to start from the album Mansion to understand the journey he's going through up to this album HOPE. I thank you for doing this, although starting fromt the beginning will give you a clearer understanding as to his music ( and the growth ). Love you're content 😊❤️
True but people who've never heard of Nate can listen to any of his songs and find something that's relatable to them. I'll be the first to say that I get into song meanings and I like to break down music videos and as adamant as I am that I got it right someone else finds something that I never thought of. 😂
Michael, I think you missed it on this one. I can't blame you, as you've never been a little girl who desperately wants her mother's love and attention. It's what I focused on because it's a tragedy that I lived. I'm 57 years old now. My kids are grown, productive citizens. My grandkids are thriving and are the joy of my life. But I still don't know that my mother loves me. And that still effects me. There were good, normal things going on in this song. And the girl was still sad. She was looking for her mother. Then she blew out the candles. Her wish was clearly for her mom to love her. She wanted a mom who wanted to be in her life. Those scenes of family togetherness were the visualization of the little girl's wish. Then we flash forward to the girl as a woman. The way she hesitated to knock on the door and the way the mother and daughter stood looking at each other indicate that the little girl did not get her wish, but she's still trying to have a mom. This video made me cry. I don't know how this artist wrote my story into a song. There are so many kids growing up right now with no idea what "happy" means. They grow into the belief that "happy" is something they can never be, or that they aren't good enough to be "happy." I pray they can work through the trauma and loneliness and be able to create a happy life for themselves. I don't think the mother was the focus of this song. It wasn't her struggle to deal with her own issues and be happy. She probably had a similar childhood. The focus is the child, who will struggle for her whole life to create and maintain happiness. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Really amazing artwork, because I interpret the video differently, and many interpretations make sense. I think she wished to be Happy, and then we are shown that she actually does have a lot to be happy about but she wasnt focusing on it until later in her life when she realized she should have.
@@Glaedr11 I originally saw it like what the main commenter said, but I really like your take on it too. This is why I love NF. It's true art. Always up for interpretation.
@Cindi, I saw that sadness, and I feel yours. You were a sacred gift to your mom. I'm sorry if she couldn't or wouldn't honor that gift by loving the child you were. You DID honor yours, though. I genuinely hope and pray that you can release your pain and forgive your mom for her shortcomings. You were the change and the reversal that she either was too damaged or too selfish to be. You are a beloved Mother and Grandmother! I Thank God for their sake that you had the fortitude to shower them with love, and be what she could not be for you. We can't always understand the circumstances behind how or why people fail us, but our hope for a brighter future drives us on nonetheless. I recognize that in you. Be well, and have a lovely day. ❤️
I watch A LOT of NF reactions, and this reaction and your Hope reaction are the best BY FAR. Your comments are the most deep, insightful, and thought provoking. Thank you.
I appreciate your evaluation Michael. I feel like I'm often lacking in the community to speak about faith and virtue, your videos have given me insight back into those parts of me. It's something I could never thank you enough for.
Your producer wants it because NF brings in those numbers! Many reaction channels became successful because of their NF reactions. Us NF fans will click on anything NF.
When I first heard this song I went running immediately and listened to it for about an hour. It hit so close to home… it’s now one of my favorite NF songs
Seeing a little kid sitting in front of a birthday cake not smiling made me cry. Something is clearly wrong with me, getting emotional over the idea of sad kids
I struggle watching people review Nfs music in particular. People who understand people like Eminem, NF, or Joyner. Really any artist who's music is a direct relation of a troubled past. If you grew up with a white picket life mom and dad never did drugs. Never had to wake up alone at 8 years old and make food and walk to school late just so you'd have lunch then the words of these songs never resonate the same way.
I have spend almost an hour studying Michael's analysis of this song. This is so good, I will share on FB. Truly, this is amazing and has made my day. The man wrapped up in himself is a small package indeed. Virtue and vice are habits and the more you do these, the harder they are to break, and the more they become your identity. We shouldn't pursue 'authenticity' - we can be authentically miserable. We know what we should do and what would make us happy. We become more like what we worship. You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with
A reaction to “Hi Ren” by Ren would be an interesting video. I believe it to be a great piece of art after careful listening an observation (the cinematography is very simple yet important.)
I really like editing the music under Michael's analysis. Really adds something to the video that's missing when we watch it live on Music Mondays. Great job, editor!
Michael, my guy. I hope somehow you see this. I'm an Arab American and you've no idea how our ideologies align! Most Arabs I know share it too, keep up the good work. We all working together to change this beautiful nation to be great.
I think Michael missed (and maybe others did too because I haven't seen people mention it) that the little girl watching her mom and dad fight is the same as the young woman who is fighting with her boyfriend in the house where there's no kid watching. They're two different fights.
NF shows how she's carried on the baggage and negativity from being a kid who watched her mom and her dad/mom's boyfriend (idk) fight into her own relationships in her adulthood by simultaneously showing clips of her fighting with her boyfriend and her watching her mom fight with her own (her mom's) boyfriend (or husband idk).
She's carried everything from her past into her future, because she's doesn't know what she'd be like if she was just... normal... happy. The turmoil is all she's known from her mom.
The birthday scene gives us insight into the girls deepest desires. She blows the candles, and we're treated to scenes of her mom playing with her - she wished for happiness and a peaceful relationship with her mom. I'd say she wished for happiness altogether. She drinks like her mom, she smokes like her mom, and she has relationship issues like her mom. In the scene where she looks at the mirror, she even sees her mom. She realizes that she has become her mom and she also realizes that perhaps all these problems stem from a distorted relationship with/perception of/lessons from her mom.
She can't imagine who she would be if she was happy, but at the end she makes the brave decision to try. She goes back to the same house where it all started; to meet her mom and maybe somehow, begin the journey toward being "Happy".
Thanks Paul! This is a beautiful comment. Gave me more insight into the meaning behind the videos. BTW, your Igbo (Nigerian) surname is cool! I have a couple of Nnaji friends, and who knows, you might be related to them! It's exciting to see a Nigerian who follows NF. (I'm sorry if my assumptions about your country of origin is wrong, but I highly doubt it is). Have a nice day Paul!
Yo you both are the first Nigerians I know that listens to NF. Thought it was just me haha
@@Nonso.forever Nice! It's great to see the Naija connect here!
@@vicadegboye684 You're definitely not wrong about my origin lol. Yeah, I'm Nigerian and Igbo. And yes, I've followed NF. A close friend played one of his songs to me in high school - I think it was 3 am - and I've followed and loved his music ever since!
Yeah, it's a breath of fresh air to find a Nigerian who follows NF too! When it comes to NF's music, the only people I'm usually able to talk to are my siblings and the friend who introduced me to it. I recently just met someone at school who listens to him too and I was soooo happy. Nice meeting you Vic!
@@Nonso.forever Why're there so few of us, man? Most people just know Let You Down and that's it. But there's soo much more!
So proud of NF. His music has evolved over time. He’s amazing at storytelling. And he is so honest about Hollywood and his journey with God and his mental health. He’s one of few artists still making what you would call art.
@HPLovecraftsCat you're cringe
Why would you be proud of NF? Pride is a feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction as a result of one's own achievements. So, what, exactly is YOUR achievement within NF's music or career that would make you proud?
@@buckhorncortez watch out we got a pseudo-intellectual here
@HPLovecraftsCat yet here you are 😂
Journey with God? No evidence in his music or life. Talk is cheap.
NF really did a banger with his new album. I listened to him from the start so i love that he has his new hope in God
Agreed. I'd probably say it's my favorite album of his so far.
Love seeing his progression over the last decade almost
Probably one of his worst albums.
@@brandonmackinnon2456 *best
@@brandonmackinnon2456 nup human spotted
This song is relatable to everyone it's part of being human.
As a Christian I'll add that I don't think releasing this music video on Good Friday was a coincidence. The video reminded me of Psalms chapter 30, especially 30.5 that plays out in the original video when it changes at the 3:05 timestamp. Michael paused it when the tone changed but catches the moment @7:30 when we see the light of a new day.
Reminds me of Psalms 30:5 "For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning"
This Entire album is Crazy good.
I wouldn’t demand listening to all his songs, bc he just has so many now but HOPE is an absolute BANGER album
his old albums are way better
@@andrewbomkamp3708 Music taste is opinionated but Way better, well, that way of phrasing can’t really be seen as opinionated, just goofy
Your wish has already been complete. th-cam.com/video/erlzaGNv0No/w-d-xo.html
@@andrewbomkamp3708whole heartedly agree and not just bc his music was more depressing, but it was definitely more of a vibe
it's always good to have variety in music sad depressing music gets old when it's done too much glad to see him evolve as a person and artist
WRITING THIS COMMENT TO SHOW LOVE TO THE PRODUCER, MR DAVIES MAN. Thanks for sharing NF's music to Michael. See you in NF's concerts ;P
just noticed something, right before her older self reflects back on her birthday when she was sad she was crying out to God, this is a prayer by the way, and she see he Mom in white in the mirror (which means Hope) and then she reflects on the positive times with her Mom, and sees her past from a different perspective. This is especially powerful when we consider how NF's own Mom dies of a drug overdose and in the song, How Could You Leave Us he says he hasn't forgiven her yet. In the Intro song Hope NF tells us he has forgiven her. Here we see it play out, the Hope allowed NF to look back at his past and think about all the good times he had with his Mom. He has a different perspective. We see that even more in his song, Moma from this same project. Loved your reaction.
Spot on. Most people say it’s her wishing for the happy moments. When actually it’s her deciding that there were already good moments and she’s gonna focus on that instead 👍
This comment made me emotional. Thank you so much for sharing this. It shifted my own perspective on the song and video
This whole song is just about breaking that cycle of the dysfunctional family. We all need to reach out to those kids and give them your time, show you care, and let them see how it IS possible to be happy. This is what God calls us to do.
Breaking the cycle! Yes! Just because it’s clear to some people, it doesn’t mean it is to the people stuck in the loop. Thank you! Lol
He needs to review MOTTO. He'll have a field day with NF roasting the industry.
He needs to do his older stuff he doesnt know where he comes from or that hes a Christian
@@highgear2359 He should do both, but probably the older stuff first. Like OH LORD OR REMEMBER THIS
He needs to do Mansion, Therapy Session, and How Could You Leave Us first
I was introduced to NF with I’ll keep on and then I have listened to Mansions many many times.
It feels like he’s back to having conversations with God through his music and it’s truly beautiful to see him continue to work these things out through prayer and music
Once again, Michael missed it. This is why his producers keep putting NF in front of him. NF is a Christian. This beautiful song is a prayer to God and how we all struggle when all we need to do is ask for help. Maybe one day Michael will look back and realize it, but right now he seems to misread NF’s lyrics because he assumes NF is among the lost.
To be fair, NF says he's Christian and goes to church but he may not have a true, saving relationship with Jesus... we don't fully know his relationship with Jesus, except that it's a bit strained according to this song....
Christianity is not an exclusive club where Christian music must be relatable only to Christians.
A Christian's job is to save non Christians by relating to them.
Coming from a non Christian Knowles interpretation makes sense and relates, especially to those who have fallen away.
I like NF and find he can reach the masses with his music, and the message. Biblically speaking this video was released on Good Friday and in the original video it reminds me of psalms chapter 30 especially the verse 30.5. The 3:05 time stamp shows that joy comes in the morning. Happiness isn't the same as joy and it's not something we're promised. Happiness is not a destination it's a feeling that comes and goes.
@@Fc3s808 I mean... it kinda is exclusive e by definition. Of course everyone is welcome to be saved, but you do have to actually commit your soul exclusively to Jesus. It's exclusive in the sense that some people are not Christian. But I agree with you about NF's music being relatable to everyone...
"This music's not just for people who sit in the pews and pray at the churches. Nah, I won't reject it. I don't expect everyone to respect it. I don't expect you to get my perspective."
@@ohifonlyx33 agreed. I'd add his grandfather was the pastor of the church when he was growing up. It's hard being related to your pastor. People in church are the most judgmental of all from my experience. My younger cousin struggled a lot with being labeled the pastor's daughter. Imagine how it would feel to be treated differently once people find out your dad is a pastor, your identity is tied to the stereotypes. People expected her to be perfect and judged her based on unrealistic expectations they didn't have for themselves. The same people judging her were no where to be found when she went through a rebellious phase and or when she fell on hard times. Christians who act like they are better than others isn't a good look. Being human is reality and not one of us is perfect. Nate makes music everyone can relate to believers and non believers alike.
I might never say this again of Michael, but I think the song and video is deeper than he even acknowledges... I feel like Michael missed the cycle of trauma we see, the influence of family, and the way the little girl grew up and wanted to break out of the cycle... and the change at the end, towards becoming happy.
Sometimes he focuses soo much on a certain perspective that he misses the more obvious one, I think most of us of an older generation has seen many families like that and what it does to the children…
AHHH YES! This song is soooo good I love it, NF keeps it real!
"“I don't know why, but I feel more comfortable living in my agony watching my self-esteem go up in flames, acting like I don't
care what anyone else thinks… The truth is I need help, but I just can't imagine who I'd be if I was happy”
NF is extremely talented.
I love Michael’s producer. Good job for him and amazing reaction Michael 😊
My very favorite NF song
"You do become more like who you worship." 🤯
Dear God..... I love the fact that the whole song is a prayer. I can no longer live in my agony is the resolution he has at the end, just like the kid as she is older, reaching back out to her mom. He is reaching back out to God...as he says, first time in a couple years.
I got sober in 2019. This song is how I felt in the parking lot when I decided to give my life over and try something different
I feel him. This song gets me every time. We could all use a little chat with God more often.
I think the visuals are overlooked here- I’m fairly certain this shows the story of how a mother abused cigarettes in front of a child and did some bad things, and the child grew up to be sad and resent her mother, but in the process she kind of ended up like her, but at the end she thought of all the good memories she had too and went to forgive her mother.
This seems to really miss the point of the song from my perspective, or at best seems to be a really surface level interpretation.
Within the context of the rest of the album and the rest of the discography it seems to have a much deeper meaning.
NF’s music up to this point has been defined by how he’s been emotionally and psychologically anchored by the traumas of his youth. This album and this song are steps towards breaking free from those shackles that have bound him.
This song is pretty clearly the existential step where he basically says “if I step forward and step out of my Trauma, who am I? My trauma is so much of who I am, and how I understand my place in this world. What does it mean to be me if I break free from that?”
His first step is to ask this question. After that he is in a place where he can really forgive (listen to the song mama) so that he can raise his son without passing his traumas on.
Michael’s generalized interpretation really neglects the richness and meaningfulness of what this song actually represents.
Saw the notification and didn't even hesitate before clicking 😂
I absolutely love it when Michael explains NF's music!
Interprets. He doesn't explain, he interprets.
Really? I love NF so I watch most people’s reactions but Michaels aren’t that great. He usually assumes NF is on drugs or what not. If he would learn the backstory it would be much better.
Why? So he can always assume NF is on drugs instead of researching him?
@@toooriginal3816 yes!!!! Exactly
He was way off in this Video. Its hard for him to understand this video i think. As someone who went through the exact samething i can tell you that there was nothing ambiguous about it.
His first explanation is of bad habits is 100% spot on
Capitol Records is genius for partnering w Michael for these types of advertisements
That "IF" is a VERY important tonal shift in the backend of the song. Knox Hill pointed it out in his breakdown. The way I see it is that despite all the bad that she was faced with and what she witnessed growing up, she also CHOSE to see the GOOD in life, the HAPPY moments sprinkled through-out all the bad times. That's what makes the video and song so special. It's something everybody can really relate to.
PLEASE DO OH LORD OR REMEMBER THIS NEXT! It will help you know how genuine and unique of an artist NF is!
Who else NEEDS to see Michael Knowles do a long form conversation style interview with NF?!!!!!!
God no, Michael is gratingly obtuse about this apparently because there is zero research being done and lots of assumptions being made.
@@hhoi8225 which is exactly why that interview needs to happen.
@@hhoi8225 and there's nothing wrong with zero research and lots of assumptions. I don't need to research an artist or song to know how it and the lyrics and the music video feels to me or how it makes me think. It's supposed to hit everyone differently.
First rule in interviewing do research know about the person you are interviewing!!
@@hhoi8225 after he does the research and reviews every song. would be sick tbh.
7:23 I really like this part of the song, where at the end we're met with an inflection point to the general tone; totally shifting from how it's been previously, and I really like how it was delivered; building the tension - how his lyrics are sorta slowed down and held out, "I can't keep on living... *like* ," and then it's released into positivity and hope.
speaking of ¨released into positivity and hope¨ I wouldn't really agree. Everything past that mirror shot is an imagination of her thinking how it could have been, how she could've raised her daughter. It's not happening in real time, just in her head. Then at the very end when she knocks on that door, it's her mother who she was raised with poorly which also made the person knocking raise her child poorly so it's a big roller coaster of emotions.
@@ExsPert Actually, I think the little girl and the younger woman are supposed to be the same person, with the timeline shifting back & forth. It's the same mom in both timelines. The shift to happiness occurs (apparently in her imagination, as you said) when she makes a wish on her birthday candles.
@@mayLibertyprevail1a Oh really, I assumed the younger girl grew up with the neglecting mother, then the younger girl also grows up to neglect her daughter and at the end the daughter meets her mother.
Been listening to NF for about two weeks now. It’s nice actually having lyrics to relate to. But the style of the ballads and raps are just hypnotically good.
Mr.Davies is aware how amazing NF is ❤ good job!
Also... NF has a very diverse catalog you never know what kind of song you'll get.
Looking back a couple months since I've heard this song, it helped me get back on the path to God. For years, I was so consumed in my self-hatred that I distanced myself from Him. But seeing NF was about to release this song, I was really excited for it and it helped me finally face my relationship with Him once I heard it. I wasn't exactly how the song describes, "...too proud to open up and ask ya, To pick me up and pull me out this hole I'm trapped in," I opened up to just about everyone, including Him, hoping He or someone would pull me out that hole, but I was too afraid of actually being happy. For years misery was all I'd known and I felt comfort in it. My prayers and hopes were surface-level. I now realize that God couldn't help me because it was I who wouldn't let Him. This song really put me on the right track towards reconciling with Him and I'd say it's my favorite song ever. I'm glad to finally be on track towards being Happy.
love this thank you for highlighting him
Still waiting for your reaction to his songs Mansion and How Could You Leave Us to see why he is the way he is.
Michael is such a good soul. Nice work buddy.
He understands, he walked without God for a time and he knows the difference is literally night and day ☀️
As someone who existed in a state depression and nihilism for years, this hits deep… I clung to my unhappiness and self loathing as an identity, It started so early in my childhood that I really didn’t know WHO I was without that baggage to cling to. It was impossible to feel clean, restored, or renewed no mater how many times I went to church or Bible study, there was always a nagging feeling of worthlessness and the knowledge that I would just spiral back into sorrow like I always do. The thought of “I wonder who I would be if I was happy” is something I’ve asked myself for a very long time. It was February 28th that I was sitting in my desk chair and listening to worship music feeling empty… I called out to God and asked him to renew my faith, and help me conquer my anxiety and depression. It hasn’t been long, but I’m finally seeing the woman I can be now that I am pursuing God fully and I can say truthfully that my depression is gone, and my anxiety is lessened. These burdens I’ve carried for so long have left me, and I am clinging to my identity in Christ, not my identity as damaged goods
I’ve been listening to NF for years and I am glad Micheal is starting to pay attention to NF.
“Don’t hold on so tightly to this miserable thing, even though it’s yours.”
But if you were to listen to NF personify his trauma... he's not clinging to trauma... Trauma is clinging to him.
😂🙏☘️💪🩸🇺🇸🌹Happy Divine Mercy Sunday
Yes, Happy Divine Mercy Sunday!!
NF is amazing!
Well now I need to look nf up
I really feel like anyone who joins the NF journey this late in time really needs to start from the beginning to fully understand and truly appreciate his journey and story through his storytelling album to album
The line " il be the first to admit im a lonley soul but the last to admit i need a hand to hold" hits me every time i hear this song.
Same here
Amazing album, have it on repeat all day, nf really outdid himself on this album.
Mr. Knowles , nf reaction, great video to wake up to today.
You have to start from the album Mansion to understand the journey he's going through up to this album HOPE. I thank you for doing this, although starting fromt the beginning will give you a clearer understanding as to his music ( and the growth ). Love you're content 😊❤️
Omgoodness, from Mansion to Hope is the most miraculous thing
True but people who've never heard of Nate can listen to any of his songs and find something that's relatable to them. I'll be the first to say that I get into song meanings and I like to break down music videos and as adamant as I am that I got it right someone else finds something that I never thought of. 😂
I never thought that this man would ever listen to NF. Now he has my respect.
I love your producer!!!! I am here for this. I look forward to your NF videos always!!!!!
Michael, I think you missed it on this one. I can't blame you, as you've never been a little girl who desperately wants her mother's love and attention. It's what I focused on because it's a tragedy that I lived. I'm 57 years old now. My kids are grown, productive citizens. My grandkids are thriving and are the joy of my life. But I still don't know that my mother loves me. And that still effects me.
There were good, normal things going on in this song. And the girl was still sad. She was looking for her mother.
Then she blew out the candles. Her wish was clearly for her mom to love her. She wanted a mom who wanted to be in her life. Those scenes of family togetherness were the visualization of the little girl's wish.
Then we flash forward to the girl as a woman. The way she hesitated to knock on the door and the way the mother and daughter stood looking at each other indicate that the little girl did not get her wish, but she's still trying to have a mom.
This video made me cry. I don't know how this artist wrote my story into a song. There are so many kids growing up right now with no idea what "happy" means. They grow into the belief that "happy" is something they can never be, or that they aren't good enough to be "happy." I pray they can work through the trauma and loneliness and be able to create a happy life for themselves.
I don't think the mother was the focus of this song. It wasn't her struggle to deal with her own issues and be happy. She probably had a similar childhood. The focus is the child, who will struggle for her whole life to create and maintain happiness.
🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Really amazing artwork, because I interpret the video differently, and many interpretations make sense. I think she wished to be Happy, and then we are shown that she actually does have a lot to be happy about but she wasnt focusing on it until later in her life when she realized she should have.
@@Glaedr11 I agree with how you see this video
@@Glaedr11 I originally saw it like what the main commenter said, but I really like your take on it too. This is why I love NF. It's true art. Always up for interpretation.
@Cindi, I saw that sadness, and I feel yours. You were a sacred gift to your mom. I'm sorry if she couldn't or wouldn't honor that gift by loving the child you were. You DID honor yours, though. I genuinely hope and pray that you can release your pain and forgive your mom for her shortcomings. You were the change and the reversal that she either was too damaged or too selfish to be. You are a beloved Mother and Grandmother! I Thank God for their sake that you had the fortitude to shower them with love, and be what she could not be for you. We can't always understand the circumstances behind how or why people fail us, but our hope for a brighter future drives us on nonetheless. I recognize that in you. Be well, and have a lovely day. ❤️
There's an old Don Henley song for you
Michael sincerely has no idea why his producer wants him to react to NF and its amusing 😂
I feel ok now because this song describes me but not my children! Thankyou Jesus🌹
I watch A LOT of NF reactions, and this reaction and your Hope reaction are the best BY FAR. Your comments are the most deep, insightful, and thought provoking. Thank you.
I was waiting for this!!!!!
It's because NF is amazing. That's all there is to it ❤
I've been jamming this song in this album all week..NF is talented and real
I appreciate your evaluation Michael. I feel like I'm often lacking in the community to speak about faith and virtue, your videos have given me insight back into those parts of me. It's something I could never thank you enough for.
This is why I subscribed to Michael.
Your producer wants it because NF brings in those numbers! Many reaction channels became successful because of their NF reactions. Us NF fans will click on anything NF.
He didn’t react to Motto? Let’s get it done! 🎉
When I first heard this song I went running immediately and listened to it for about an hour. It hit so close to home… it’s now one of my favorite NF songs
0:13 now he’s gotta watch why
Frfr
This song is incredible
I've literally accounted for most of these streams/views myself. This song has been on repeat 24/7 in my ears since release. Best song on the album.
I have been waiting for your review. Finally! ✌🏽
Seeing a little kid sitting in front of a birthday cake not smiling made me cry. Something is clearly wrong with me, getting emotional over the idea of sad kids
Been waiting for this video since the song dropped!
Liked your takes on NF’s songs.
A blessed day!
"Virtue and vice are habits" well stated MK
I struggle watching people review Nfs music in particular. People who understand people like Eminem, NF, or Joyner. Really any artist who's music is a direct relation of a troubled past. If you grew up with a white picket life mom and dad never did drugs. Never had to wake up alone at 8 years old and make food and walk to school late just so you'd have lunch then the words of these songs never resonate the same way.
I have spend almost an hour studying Michael's analysis of this song. This is so good, I will share on FB. Truly, this is amazing and has made my day.
The man wrapped up in himself is a small package indeed.
Virtue and vice are habits and the more you do these, the harder they are to break, and the more they become your identity.
We shouldn't pursue 'authenticity' - we can be authentically miserable.
We know what we should do and what would make us happy.
We become more like what we worship.
You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with
Hey, thank you so much for the video I have been a hug fan of nf for years now and love it when you do his videos.
Ive been waiting for this video! Thank you Mr. Knowles
A reaction to “Hi Ren” by Ren would be an interesting video. I believe it to be a great piece of art after careful listening an observation (the cinematography is very simple yet important.)
Gotta keep your "street cred", that's why!
Michael listen to “how could you leave us” I would love to hear you break it down
You know it's a good song when Micheal just sits and listens .......
Michael saying all of these inspirational things to and NF instrumental in the background has just hit me harder than most things I've ever watched. ❤
The last verse is short but changes everything. "I can't keep on living in...."
Its about generational curses
This song is legitimately GREAT.
I really like editing the music under Michael's analysis. Really adds something to the video that's missing when we watch it live on Music Mondays. Great job, editor!
Michael, my guy. I hope somehow you see this. I'm an Arab American and you've no idea how our ideologies align! Most Arabs I know share it too, keep up the good work. We all working together to change this beautiful nation to be great.
The new album is called "Hope" and I think, and pray, that he's starting to get some of that.
More analyzing of good things!!! This is fantastic! Twenty One Pilots also have powerful insights
NF needs to see this!!
I really like hearing your perspective on these songs.
I think this is the song people need right now. We need to get past being victims, from our only stability being the rut we are in…
I personally believe that when she blows out the candles that she is remembering the positivity in the midsts of the turmoil and negativity.
my favorite NF reaction channel!! lol
Thank You Michael for this videos! ❤
As soon as I saw this song drop I was waiting for the Michael Knowles reaction
Thank you for doing this one!
Love Michael's perspective when he reacts to songs!
We love NF in our house. Thank you for reacting to Happy!!
YESSS. I’m so happy (no pun intended) you’re listening to this!
Omg... this music video is heartbreaking..I could cry all day...😢😢😢😢😢❤
Nf music was their on my hardest time in life .....
Thank you for doing this man ,I follow you too .
Love the way the music blended into the background and ended the video
I really hope Michael reviews Mansion next!
this one HITS so hard... and its so true..
I saw NF in concert in like 2019 and it was phenomenal
Love this mini NF series Michael! Would love to see it continue.