Baby Steps

It's a heartfelt exploration of moving on, where the artist captures the bittersweet feelings of nostalgia while embracing the possibility of growth. The tone mixes sadness with hope, creating an emotional arc that resonates with anyone who's had to rediscover themselves after a loss.

Verse 1

"It's funny in the rear view
You're closer than you are
In truth we're worlds apart
I'm used to being near you
When I'm down at ten percent
And you'd plug me straight back in
Now there's no-one to text when the plane lands
Or to call when it's taking off"

In this opening verse, the speaker reflects on the complexity of a past relationship. The phrase "funny in the rear view" suggests looking back on memories with a mix of humor and sadness. The idea that they feel "closer than you are" hints at how memories can make someone feel near, even when they’re physically far away. The mention of being "down at ten percent" shows vulnerability, indicating that the person was a source of support. Now, without that support, the speaker feels isolated as they face life’s transitions alone, like landing and taking off on a plane.

Chorus

"Right, left
Baby steps
I'll be my own pair of safe hands
It's not the end, it's the making of
Right, left"

The chorus shifts the focus to the idea of moving forward, even if it's just a little at a time. "Baby steps" symbolizes taking small, manageable actions to regain independence. By saying, "I'll be my own pair of safe hands," the speaker recognizes the need to rely on themselves for comfort and security. The line "It's not the end, it's the making of" reinforces the idea that this moment is not just about loss, but about personal growth and transformation.

Verse 2

"It's learning how to balance
If I'm out on Friday night
It'll be me turning on the lights
When I come home
But I'll manage
There'll be roses on the shelf
'Cause this house gon' love itself
Yeah, this house gon' love itself"

In this verse, the tone shifts to one of self-sufficiency and empowerment. The speaker talks about "learning how to balance," indicating the journey of finding stability in their life. They acknowledge that they’ll be doing things for themselves now, like "turning on the lights" at home. The imagery of "roses on the shelf" suggests self-care and self-love, reinforcing that it’s okay to create a loving environment for oneself. The repetition of "this house gon' love itself" emphasizes that nurturing oneself is crucial during this period of adjustment.

Chorus

"I'm taking
Ba ba ba, baby steps
Ba ba ba, baby steps
Ba ba ba, baby steps
Ba ba ba, baby steps"

The chorus repeats here, reinforcing the main theme of gradual progress. The catchy rhythm of "ba ba ba" adds a light-hearted vibe, making the idea of taking baby steps feel more approachable. It’s a reminder that growth doesn’t need to be rushed; it’s okay to take it slow.

Bridge

"I won't fall back
If I fall forwards
At least I have that
At least I have that"

In the bridge, there's a powerful shift in mindset. The speaker acknowledges that moving forward might come with risks, but it’s worth it. They express a sense of determination with "I won't fall back," showing a commitment to progress. The phrase "at least I have that" highlights a sense of acceptance and resilience, suggesting that even in uncertainty, there’s strength in moving ahead.

Chorus

"I'm taking
Ba ba ba, baby steps
Ba ba ba, baby steps
Ba ba ba, baby steps
Ba ba ba, baby steps"

The final repetition of the chorus drives home the message of taking things one step at a time. It feels like a mantra for moving forward, emphasizing that it’s okay to embrace the process of healing and growth.

Closing Thoughts

"Baby Steps" resonates with listeners because it captures the universal struggle of finding oneself after a significant change. Olivia Dean’s relatable lyrics and the hopeful tone provide comfort to anyone navigating their own journey of self-discovery. The song's emphasis on gradual progress makes it not just a reflection on loss, but a celebration of resilience and personal growth.