Examining "Unholy's" Lyrics, Sound, and Cultural Impact

The Meaning Behind "Unholy" by Sam Smith

Sam Smith took the music world by storm in 2022 with the smash hit single "Unholy" featuring Kim Petras. The lyrics explore moral ambiguity in a toxic relationship, with religious references used as metaphors. Let's analyze the poetic lyrics behind this chart-topping song.

Exploring Moral Ambiguity in Relationships

The central theme of "Unholy" examines the tension between knowing something is morally questionable yet feeling unable to resist temptation. The lyrics "Mummy don't know daddy's getting hot at the body shop" illustrate an adulterous scenario where sexual attraction overrides vows. This sets up the internal conflict explored throughout the song.

The chorus hooks into this theme powerfully: "Oh my, it's a thin line between sin and amazing grace." Smith establishes the thin divide between behaving righteously versus indulging forbidden desires. There is clear awareness this relationship crosses moral lines, yet also feels thrilling.

Religious Imagery Symbolizing Inner Turmoil

Biblical references underscore the inner turmoil caused by this morally ambiguous relationship. The lyrics contain thought-provoking religious metaphors:

"Drinking elixir at the pearly gates/I'll be forgiven before I'm getting saved." Smith uses imagery of the entrance to Heaven to represent how intoxicating this temptation feels, almost like a magical elixir. There is an assumption of later forgiveness rather than immediate redemption.

"I'm going straight to Hell in the chokehold." This vivid phrase emphasizes the conscious awareness of sinning yet seemingly inability to stop oneself once in the throes of passion.

Toxic Attraction in a Destructive Relationship

Upon deeper analysis, "Unholy" clearly depicts a toxic, damaging relationship that feels irresistible despite its obvious downsides. Smith acknowledges the appeal: "I'm finding ways to stay tantalized." Yet danger lurks beneath: "Killer in the mirror with the bloody knife."

The bridge explains why walking away seems impossible: "Like drugs you run up in my veins/And I can't get enough." Though fully aware this person ruins one's life, the intoxicating chemistry overrides all rational objections.

The Alluring Sound Behind "Unholy's" Success

Beyond the lyrical artistry, "Unholy" succeeds through an ingenious fusion of pop, electronic dance, gospel, and country influences. Smith's soaring vocals pair dramatically with Petras' lower register. Let's explore the sonic factors catapulting this single's achievements.

Fusing Genres for Mainstream Appeal

Few recent hits blend genres so masterfully. "Unholy" mixes EDM beats with pop song structures plus a gospel choir in the bridge. Meandering slide guitars evoke country music's emotional directness.

Accordingly, these varied stylistic touches enable wide accessibility. Fans of Top 40 pop, club music, modern country, and classic soul all discover recognizable elements to enjoy.

Vocal Chemistry Powers the Performance

Smith's extraordinary voice has skyrocketed past singles to ubiquity. Yet Petras' dynamic presence elevates "Unholy" further. Their contrasting deliveries offer musical tension and release.

Smith generally sings smoothly using rich midrange tones then suddenly leaps into a sharp falsetto. Meanwhile Petras alternates between a deeper chest voice and higher, breathy head voice.

Trading lines underscores the push/pull within the lyrics. And their final soaring harmonies on the outro feel triumphantly cathartic.

The Legacy of "Unholy" as a Cultural Moment

Beyond attaining #1 chart status across multiple countries, "Unholy" has permeated culture more profoundly. Its influence extends through fashion, social media trends, and public dialogues around gender and identity.

Sparking Self-Expression Through Fashion

"Unholy" visually leans into gothic fashion. Many fans emulate the music video's black lipstick, chin tattoos, and facial jewelry. Hashtags like #unholymakeup demonstrate Smith and Petras inspiring creative self-expression.

The song also boosted searches for corsets, layered pearl necklaces, and the Maison Margiela "Tabi" split-toe boots both artists wear in the video.

"That's Real Hot" Meme Goes Viral

One brief lyrics snippet launched a meme sensation online. In the opening line "That's real hot, hot, hot, hot," Smith's repetition of "hot" went viral on TikTok. Creators humorously overlay the audio onto anything deemed attractive, cooled off, or exaggeratedly overheated like scalding food.

These memes showcase "Unholy" permeating mainstream consciousness. The song inspired creative responses far beyond music itself.

Profound Representation Within Pop Music

Perhaps most meaningfully, "Unholy" marks a watershed moment for LGBTQ representation. Having two queer artists unapologetically flaunting sexuality showed the power of mainstream validation.

Accordingly, many hail the single as cultural progress. Seeing such inclusion still feels monumentally impactful. Unholy" reminds all people deserve feeling beautiful, desired, and heard.

Ultimately "Unholy" profoundly impacted 2022 culture through creativity, self-expression, humor, and representation. Smith and Petras created a musical force achieving wondrous things simply by embracing their true selves.

FAQs

What is the main theme of the song "Unholy"?

The main theme explored in "Unholy" is the tension between knowing a relationship is morally questionable yet feeling unable to resist the temptation and intoxicating chemistry.

What music genres are blended together in "Unholy"?

"Unholy" fuses musical elements from pop, electronic dance music, gospel, and modern country to achieve its unique sound.

How did the lyrics from "Unholy" spark an online meme?

The repeated line "That's real hot, hot, hot, hot" from the opening lyrics launched a popular TikTok meme where creators humorously overlay the audio onto anything deemed attractive or overheated.

Why has "Unholy" been impactful for LGBTQ representation?

Having openly queer artists Sam Smith and Kim Petras unashamedly flaunt sexuality in a mainstream pop song was profoundly impactful for representation. Many see it as meaningful progress in culture.