What I Want Lyrics – Kehlani

What I Want Lyrics Meaning

[Intro]
The introduction of Kehlani’s song “What I Want” establishes a bold and assertive tone, emphasizing the singer’s clear and unwavering desires. It repetitively declares what a girl truly wants, underscoring a sense of certainty and confidence in knowing exactly what she desires in her life and relationships. The repeated phrases, “What a girl wants” and “All I really want,” serve to reinforce the importance and clarity of these desires. The energetic exclamation “Yeah, yeah, yeah” adds an element of excitement and affirmation, suggesting a readiness to pursue these wants actively and unapologetically.

[Verse 1]
In the first verse, Kehlani articulates her preferences and expectations in a partner. She desires someone who intuitively understands her needs without her having to explicitly state them. This reflects her desire for emotional intelligence and connection. She values someone who has figured out her body and preferences, allowing for a deeper, more intuitive connection. Rejecting superficiality, she dismisses traditional romantic gestures like pick-up lines in favor of substance and authenticity. The mention of luxury items such as a Bentley pickup truck and Prada accessories hints at her appreciation for quality and a certain lifestyle, but more importantly, it underscores her desire for a partner who complements her life rather than complicating it with materialistic demands.

[Pre-Chorus]
The pre-chorus shifts focus to Kehlani’s desire to elevate her partner’s confidence and allure. She envisions transforming them into someone extraordinarily appealing and memorable. By mentioning specific locales like Medellín instead of Miami, she suggests a preference for unique and exotic experiences, reinforcing her desire for excitement and a departure from the ordinary.

[Chorus]
The chorus amplifies Kehlani’s aspirations and desires in her relationships. She expresses a longing for perfection and power, symbolized by “my tens” and “the power.” This suggests a desire for relationships that are not just fulfilling emotionally and physically but also elevate her sense of self and personal power. The phrase “While the world falls around us” underscores her desire to live in the moment with her partner, unaffected by external chaos. Her mention of flying away hints at a desire for freedom and escape from societal pressures. Inviting “all the pretty girls to the shower” may imply a celebration of femininity and camaraderie, suggesting that she seeks joy and inclusivity in her relationships.

[Verse 2]
In the second verse, Kehlani delves deeper into her expectations from her partner. She dismisses conversations about past relationships, emphasizing a preference for moving forward and focusing on the present. Her skepticism towards someone’s self-proclaimed traits (“She said she a freak, I ain’t believe it”) highlights her value for authenticity and genuine connection. She celebrates natural beauty and physical chemistry, expressing her ability to pursue and attain what she desires in her relationships.

[Bridge]
The bridge serves to consolidate Kehlani’s desires and intentions, reiterating the simplicity and clarity of what she wants. By repeating the phrase “All I really want,” she emphasizes the uncomplicated nature of her desires, reinforcing her assertiveness and clarity in pursuing her wants.

[Outro]
In the outro, Kehlani reflects on the intensity and satisfaction of her current relationship. She marvels at her partner’s evolving appeal and abilities, celebrating their deep physical and emotional connection. The lyrics portray a profound intimacy and mutual satisfaction, suggesting a relationship that fulfills both partners on multiple levels. Her passionate expression underlines a deep-seated connection and contentment with her partner, reinforcing the themes of desire, satisfaction, and empowerment that permeate the song.