Released: 2016
“Hide Away” by Daya serves up a raw, candid reflection about the difficulties of finding quality companionship, especially amid the pressures and superficial standards of modern dating. Essentially, Daya’s expression of longing for a sincere and genuine connection provides the central theme here.
The opening lines “Boys seem to like the girls / Who laugh at anything / The ones who get undressed / Before the second date” broach the stereotypical expectations and trivial wooing techniques popular among today’s youth. By saying “Girls seem to like the boys / Who don’t appreciate / All the money and the time that it takes / To be fly as a mother”, Daya is highlighting the vanity and the lack of depth in most cases – the flashy, materialistic values that are often prioritized over emotional depth and compatibility.
The line “Got my both eyes out for Mr. Right / Guessing I just don’t know where to find ’em” emphasizes her quest for a true connection, that elusive partner who is both genuine and respectful. Her repeated question, “Where do the good boys go to hide away, hide away?” essentially underscores her struggle to find such an individual. She indicates her readiness for a meaningful relationship by referring to herself as a “good, good girl who needs a little company.”
When Daya mentions a boy “Who is down for the chase / Putting in the time that it takes / To be fly as a mother,” she’s essentially asking for effort, sincerity, and someone who understands that a solid relationship needs time and nurturing. The phrase “fly as a mother” is popular slang referencing someone who’s extremely attractive, essentially Daya’s nod to the balance between physical appeal and substance.
The final part of the song sees Daya wildly echoing the same question, “Where do the good boys go to hide away, hide away?”. It’s a desperate plea for clarity, a solution to her quandary, and for someone to point her towards a potential partner who is decent, respectful, and genuinely interested in building a strong relationship.
All in all, the lyrics of “Hide Away” beautifully interweave the frustrations, yearnings, and nuances of contemporary dating culture. The good news? Daya’s message serves as a beacon that encourages listeners to hold out for a relationship that’s truly fulfilling. It’s okay to desire more than just surface-level attraction – it’s okay to seek depth, sincerity, and a real connection. Now that’s a pop anthem worth singing!
