The Meaning Behind The Song: Washed Away by Kelela

TitleWashed Away
ArtistKelela
Writer/ComposerKelela & Janiva Ellis
AlbumRaven (2023)
Release DateSeptember 13, 2022
GenreR&B, Pop, New Age, Ambient, Electronic, Alternative R&B

After a four-year-long hiatus, Kelela’s comeback brings a harmonic, heart-soothing song as the first single from her second studio album. “Washed Away” captivates listeners with its ethereal beauty and mesmerizing vocals.

The song opens with the lines “Far away, Far away, Far away, Washed away.” These repeated phrases create a sense of distance and the feeling of being disconnected from reality. Kelela’s vocals are gentle and float atop the dreamy production, enhancing the song’s emotive qualities.

The mist, the light, the dust that settles in the night
The hope, the longing, fade away, blurry-eyed
Riding out on metal rays
Moving on, a change of pace, and I’m

In the verse, Kelela explores themes of longing, hope, and change. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing for something beyond the present moment, a desire to escape from the mundane. The reference to “metal rays” suggests a futuristic journey or a departure from the known, hinting at the transformative nature of moving forward.

As a listener, I am drawn to the introspective and reflective nature of “Washed Away.” The song speaks to the universal human experience of yearning for change, whether it be in our personal lives or in the world at large. Kelela’s evocative lyrics and delicate vocals create an emotional landscape that resonates with the listener.

The production of “Washed Away” deserves special mention. Yo Van Lenz, who previously collaborated with Kelela on the remix of “HeavenCent,” creates a lush sonic backdrop that envelopes the listener. The atmospheric soundscapes and ambient textures give the song an otherworldly feel, enhancing its overall ethereal quality.

Kelela’s comeback was met with anticipation and excitement from her fans, who had been eagerly waiting for new music. The surprise release of “Washed Away” was a delightful surprise, and the song quickly gained attention and praise from both critics and listeners alike.

On a personal level, “Washed Away” holds a special meaning for me. The song reminds me of the power of music to transport us to different emotional states. It serves as a reminder to embrace change and embrace the unknown, as it often leads to growth and personal transformation.

Furthermore, the lyrics resonate with my own experiences of longing for something more, for a sense of meaning and purpose. “Washed Away” encourages me to reflect on my own desires for change and the steps I can take to make those desires a reality.

In conclusion, “Washed Away” by Kelela is a captivating and introspective song that beautifully captures themes of longing, change, and the human desire for something beyond the present moment. With its ethereal production and mesmerizing vocals, the song creates an emotional landscape that resonates deeply with listeners. Its release marks an exciting return for Kelela and leaves fans eagerly awaiting her upcoming album, “Raven.”

ncG1vNJzZminnJnBqrnEpqysoZNjsLC5jrBpaKyYmnquscCnoKefXZeyqbXNnWStoJViwLC6xmaumquYmrFurdaasGaaqWK4prjEpZho