Rain on Me Track Review

L: So - C, this is our very first blog and our very first track review! Tell me why you wanted to start with Rain on Me.

C: I wanted to start with Rain on Me to kick our blog off with a bang. This is a cultural moment between two huge artists and I thought it would be fun if we reviewed it.

L: It’s a cultural moment within a cultural moment, right? We’re all trying to figure out what kind of lasting art and music will come out of the COVID era - will it be a direct reflection of how we feel, or will it be escapism … what do people want to hear right now?

C: Interesting point. And very fitting, because Rain on Me is a song about accepting all the trauma you’ve been through and letting it rain on you.

L: Do you think the song is asking us to let the traumas roll right off of us?

C: No. I think it’s more about acceptance of what you’ve been through and dancing it away.

L: There’s a lot to be said for that - it’s a pretty tough time to find the will to dance. We all need to do more dancing.

C: Let’s dive into the track itself. It’s a dance-pop tune with some major Clean Bandit influence. The bouncy chorus reminds me a lot of Rather Be.

L: I’m not as familiar with Clean Bandit- was Rather Be an anomaly for them? In terms of pop style?

C: They’re a violin group that takes violin hooks and produces them into dance-pop.

L: Cool. I had no idea! When I listen, I’m definitely not as aware of pop influences as you are. I’m more of a rock’ n’ roll girl. Plus I’m old enough to be your mother. :) But I do love the contrast between Lady Gaga’s ferocity and Ariana Grande’s far more delicate … ferocity. Two entirely different beasts, equally formidable.

C: I’m so glad you brought this up. I think Ariana Grande sounds a lot smoother on this track, whereas Lady Gaga comes in as a sharper voice, especially at the beginning.

L: That seems like a signature of hers.

C: Sharpness? Definitely. Lady Gaga always has an aggressive presence. I really like that about her. And what’s funny is, these two artists - their vocal styles - really complement each other.

L: It’s a big song. It’s upbeat and catchy and makes you want to jump, just like in the video. Speaking of the video - I’m a huge fan of tiny women looming large. Seeing these two jump up and down together and jam makes me super happy.

C: It’s a much better video (and song) than Stupid Love. It has better choreography and there is some semblance of a story.

L: Now for the big question: The bridge. Break down that bridge, C.

C: Yikes. Disappointing.

L; Agreed. But why?

C: Lyrically, it’s extremely weak. “Rain on me, tsunami”? “I’ll be your galaxy”? I don’t see what either of those have to do with the song.

L: Well, they both rhyme with “me” and pop loves a good rhyme …

C: This wasn’t a good rhyme. It reminds me of the lyric in Break Free, “Now that I’ve become who I really are … “

L: Millenials, am I right?

C: No. That’s ageist. And we have one more misstep to add …

L: Yeah, the “Rain. On. Me.” bit. It just doesn’t serve the song in any way except to showcase the depth of Gaga’s voice. And her voice is bonkers good. But it’s a weak spot in the song, for sure.

C: The low voice is a Gaga signature, but I’m sad she used it here.

L: Meh. She just didn’t need to. Let’s end on a positive note, though: I really needed this song right now. It’s deep but not too deep. And that dancy goodness makes me want to hear it again.

C: Yes!!!!! It is so fun and I’ve been listening to it all day. My favorite part is when she sings, “I’d rather be dry, but at least I’m alive.”

L: Wise words, especially nowadays. Can’t wait to write our next review, C! What’s it gonna be?

C: Maybe SAWAYAMA?

L: Whatever you say. Let’s do it.

Ratings Scale: If Poker Face is a Gaga 10/10, Rain on Me is a 7/10.

• C + L