Meaning of “WANNABE” by ITZY

Written By Michael Miller

Michael is a music teacher and professional cellist. He loves uncovering the deeper meaning of popular songs.

“WANNABE” by ITZY is all about embracing one’s true self and resisting societal pressure to fit into a mold. The song is a vibrant call for individuality, self-love, and empowerment. It emphasizes the importance of being authentic and not bending to the whims of naysayers. It’s a song for anyone who’s ever felt boxed in by others’ expectations, telling them that it’s okay to be themselves – flaws and all.

Dive into “WANNABE” by ITZY and discover the power of self-acceptance.

“WANNABE” Lyrics Meaning

From the very start, the lyrics set a clear tone. “You’re nagging non-stop / But I’m my own boss” is a clear declaration of independence from external judgements. The artist refuses to be micromanaged or controlled, emphasizing the need to make their own decisions, even if they lead to mistakes.

As the lyrics continue with “I’m so bad bad / Imma get all I can get,” there’s a shift from just defending oneself against naysayers to a more assertive proclamation of self-worth. The assertion that “good girls always finish last” challenges societal expectations of how a “good girl” should behave, suggesting that adhering to those standards can be limiting.

The chorus, “I wanna be me me me,” is not just a catchy hook but the central theme. The repetition underscores the importance of self-identity, highlighting the value of individuality over conformity.

Interestingly, “Errbody, errbody, errbody teaching me” points to the constant barrage of unsolicited advice and scrutiny that many face, especially in today’s digital age where everyone seems to have an opinion. The line “Got flaws, so take it or leave it” is a bold embrace of imperfection, suggesting that flaws are a natural part of being human and should be accepted rather than hidden or corrected.

In the latter part of the song, ITZY tackles critics head-on with “They all think that they can be the judge of my life.” It’s a sentiment many can relate to, especially in a world where judgments are passed quickly. Yet, the group remains resilient, stating they have no time for “meaningless opinions.”

Concluding the song with the reiterated chorus of “I wanna be me,” drives home the point that embracing and loving oneself, imperfections and all, is the ultimate goal.

Why Was “WANNABE” Written?

The song serves as a representation of the internal struggles many young people face today. There’s a societal pressure to conform, to adhere to certain standards, and to present oneself in a certain way, especially with the advent of social media. The song could very well be a response to the unrealistic standards and expectations set by society, particularly towards young women.

The writers and ITZY, through “WANNABE,” probably wanted to send out a strong message of self-acceptance and empowerment. It’s a beacon of hope and affirmation for those struggling with their identity, telling them that they’re perfect just the way they are and that they don’t need to change for anyone. The song is a powerful reminder that everyone’s journey and identity are unique, and it should be celebrated rather than stifled.