Released: 2023
Features: Sahtyre
“RNTBCK” by Kimbra, featuring Sahtyre, dives into the resilience and determination one needs to bounce back after a fall. It’s a throbbing anthem of triumph—telling the world we’re here to win, come back stronger, and we’re certainly not running from our problems.
The hook, “Run it back,” is a repetitive call to action. It’s like Kimbra’s giving herself a pep talk after a setback, hell-bent on reclaiming what she’s lost: “Lost everything I ever wanted / And won it back.” She’s not just sitting back; she’s fighting for the victory, or the “W,” and when she achieves it, she’s not complacent—she doubles back for more. This line goes beyond being tenacious. It’s a battle cry for anyone who’s ever been knocked down and refuses to stay there.
The song layers this idea with vivid analogies. Sahtyre throws in references to American football with “run it back like running backs / Facemask with the shoulder pads.” It’s a nod to the gritty determination and toughness of athletes. However, he’s also quick to clarify his preferences in less aggressive terms, “You think I wanted cream, but I like it black,” referencing simplicity in his coffee choice maybe, but more likely a way of living—no frills, straight to the point.
Furthermore, the song delineates a certain level of self-assuredness and removing unwanted noise: “I’ma cut out anything that’s in my psyche / Feeling myself high key.” This is about focusing on oneself, clearing out the mental clutter, and embracing self-confidence without restraint.
Towards the end, the lyrics hint at a kind of Robin Hood mentality: “I got the devil in my eye, I’m doing God’s work.” It presents an intriguing paradox where the protagonist acknowledges their darker side but maintains that their actions serve a righteous purpose. Maybe it’s an acknowledgment of the inherent complexity of human nature—we’re not just one thing. We have shadows, yet we strive for something greater.
Overall, “RNTBCK” is a kinetic and empowering track that could serve as the soundtrack for anyone who’s fighting their own personal battles. It’s about reclaiming your power, your spot, and not just coming back—but coming back with a vengeance.
