Released: 2024
No Shade at Pitti by The Chainsmokers is a song that beautifully encapsulates the journey of self-discovery and healing after a break-up. It’s all about emerging from a period of emotional turmoil and finding a renewed sense of self in the wake of separation.
The opening lines set the scene: “The first day of spring, the city’s feelin’ brand new” – the arrival of spring symbolizes a fresh start. The phrase, “No shade at Pitti” could be a reference to Pitti Uomo, a men’s fashion event in Italy, where “no shade” could mean either tension-free or bright and sunny. A light, positive way to kick off a song about moving on.
When the lyrics say “I can’t believe I haven’t thought about you (about you)”, it underscores the realization that the person they’ve been caught up over no longer has the same hold on their thoughts. The lines “60 degrees, but we can take it all. I can’t believe I haven’t thought about you” play on the comfortable temperature and the comfort derived from realizing that they’re moving on.
As the song unfolds, “It’s time to leave, you went cold as winter. And with one final breeze, both of you let go of me,” clearly showcases the decision to leave behind not just a person but also a part of their own identity shaped around that person.
The chorus “Everything looks better now” expresses optimism. The process of ‘replacing the scenes’ and the confession of “Done self-deprecating ’til I burst at the seams” symbolizes letting go of past hurt and creating new, better memories.
The lyrics, “Called all my friends that I could fit in one room, Testin’ my speakers like they have never been used, Now I can breathe when I think about you (think about you)” paints a picture of a gathering of friends and the catharsis of blasting loud music to reclaim one’s space. The ‘drinking for two’ part might suggest they are learning to fill the void left by the person they’ve moved on from.
The repetition of “I can’t believe I’m doing better now” brings the song full circle. It amplifies the sentiment that they’re starting to heal, acknowledging the progress they’ve made post-break-up. And that’s the beauty of No Shade at Pitti, it’s a song of resilience, proving that bouncing back from heartbreak is possible, and that a brighter day, like the first day of spring, always follows a long, drawn-out winter.
