Written by Yassmin Elmouzaieg
When Charli XCX released her album BRAT earlier this month, fans and critics alike were quick to speculate that the track “Girl, so confusing” was inspired by none other than Lorde, a fellow pop star often compared to Charli. Today, the speculation ends as Charli unveils a new version of the track featuring Lorde herself, titled “The girl, so confusing version with Lorde.”
The track delves deep into the complexities of female relationships, particularly the one shared by Charli and Lorde. Over an AG Cook beat, the song explores not just their professional rivalry but also their personal friendship, which has been filled with misunderstandings and emotional struggles. Fans have long observed the unique dynamic between the two artists — both as icons in the industry and as regular people dealing with relatable issues.
Lorde’s verse on the track reveals a vulnerability that many fans may find surprising. She opens up about her insecurities and personal battles, explaining how her own struggles affected her relationship with Charli. This honest portrayal adds a layer of authenticity to the song, making it a testament to the power of miscommunication and the strength of female bonds. As Lorde sings, “Well, honestly, I was speechless / When I woke up to your voice note / You told me how you’d been feeling / Let’s work it out on the remix,” it becomes clear that the song is as much about reconciliation as it is about the complexities of being a woman in the music industry.
Charli’s lyrics echo a similar sentiment of confusion and longing. She expresses the difficulty of navigating a relationship with someone she admires yet feels distant from, singing, “Sometimes I think you might hate me / Sometimes I think I might hate you / Maybe you just wanna be me.” This raw honesty is something that fans of both artists have come to appreciate.
For both artists, this collaboration marks a significant moment in their careers. Charli and Lorde have managed to turn their personal challenges into a poignant piece of art, one that speaks to their growth as individuals and as friends. The song’s lyrics, particularly lines like “People say we’re alike / They say we’ve got the same hair / It’s you and me on the coin / The industry loves to spend,” reflect the external pressures they face and their determination to rise above them as women.
“The girl, so confusing version with Lorde” is a bold and necessary exploration of the intricacies of female friendship. A raw and vulnerable song between two young female idols is a testament to their ability to confront and overcome personal and professional challenges. By addressing their misunderstandings and working through their issues publicly, they have created a powerful narrative that resonates with fans and solidifies their status as two of the most authentic voices in pop music today.
