Meant to Be – Bebe Rexha feat. Florida Georgia Line
Released on October 24, 2017, Bebe Rexha’s “Meant to Be,” featuring the country duo Florida Georgia Line, is a captivating fusion of pop and country that captivated listeners across genres. The song’s infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, combined with its smooth production, have solidified its place as one of the defining tracks of 2017 and beyond. The official music video, released in conjunction with the single, adds a visual narrative that enhances the song’s themes of love and destiny. This article delves into the composition, lyrical content, visual presentation, and cultural impact of “Meant to Be.”
Musical Composition and Production
“Meant to Be” is a blend of pop and country elements that creates a unique and engaging sound. The track features a mid-tempo rhythm with a laid-back groove, allowing both Rexha’s and Florida Georgia Line’s styles to shine. The production is characterized by its smooth, melodic guitar riffs, subtle percussion, and a steady beat that underpins the song’s harmonious vocals.
Bebe Rexha, known for her versatility in pop music, delivers her vocals with a sense of warmth and sincerity. Her voice seamlessly blends with the country influences brought by Florida Georgia Line, showcasing her ability to cross musical boundaries. The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with a catchy melody that invites listeners to sing along:
“If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be / Baby, just let it be.”
The production is polished yet understated, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics to take center stage. The arrangement includes acoustic elements that emphasize the country influence, while the pop sensibilities ensure that the track remains accessible to a wide audience.
Lyrics and Themes
The lyrics of “Meant to Be” revolve around the theme of accepting and trusting the course of love. The song explores the idea that if a relationship is meant to happen, it will unfold naturally without forcing or overthinking. This message is conveyed through simple yet poignant lines that reflect a sense of ease and contentment:
“I don’t wanna be just friends, I wanna be with you.”
The verses detail the process of coming to terms with a relationship’s natural progression, emphasizing the importance of allowing things to happen organically. The chorus reinforces the central theme of the song, encouraging listeners to embrace the uncertainty of love and trust in its natural course.
The song’s lyrics resonate with many who have experienced the challenges and joys of relationships. The message of letting go and trusting fate speaks to the universal experience of love and the desire to find a meaningful connection.
Music Video and Visual Presentation
The official music video for “Meant to Be,” directed by Sophie Muller, was released on November 1, 2017. The video features a visually engaging narrative that complements the song’s themes. It depicts a series of scenes that revolve around the idea of destiny and connection.
The video begins with a shot of Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line performing the song in a cozy, intimate setting, setting the tone for the narrative. The visual narrative then transitions to scenes of a couple whose paths cross in various ways, illustrating the idea that their meeting is destined. The use of vibrant colors and scenic backdrops enhances the video’s visual appeal, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Throughout the video, the couple’s interactions are portrayed with a sense of ease and naturalness, reinforcing the song’s message of letting love happen organically. The visual storytelling is complemented by the song’s lyrics, creating a cohesive experience that resonates with viewers.
The video’s production quality is high, with attention to detail in both the cinematography and the portrayal of the song’s themes. The visual elements effectively enhance the emotional impact of the track, making it more memorable and engaging for viewers.
Impact and Reception
“Meant to Be” received widespread acclaim from both critics and fans, becoming a significant hit in both pop and country music charts. The song topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and achieved commercial success in multiple countries, earning platinum certifications in several regions.
The track’s blend of pop and country elements contributed to its broad appeal, attracting listeners from diverse musical backgrounds. The collaboration between Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line was praised for its seamless integration of genres, showcasing the versatility of both artists.
The song’s success was further bolstered by its popularity on streaming platforms and social media, where it became a favorite for playlists and personal listening. The official music video also played a role in the song’s success, with its engaging narrative and high production value enhancing its overall impact.
Cultural Significance and Legacy
“Meant to Be” holds cultural significance as a successful crossover hit that bridges the gap between pop and country music. The song’s ability to blend genres while maintaining its authenticity speaks to the evolving landscape of contemporary music.
The track’s message of accepting love and trusting in destiny resonates with many listeners, making it a timeless anthem for those navigating the complexities of relationships. The collaboration between Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line serves as a prime example of how artists from different genres can come together to create something truly special.
The song’s enduring popularity and impact on both pop and country music highlight its significance in the broader context of modern music. “Meant to Be” remains a beloved track, celebrated for its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and successful blending of genres.
Conclusion
Bebe Rexha’s “Meant to Be,” featuring Florida Georgia Line, is a standout track that exemplifies the successful fusion of pop and country music. With its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and smooth production, the song has resonated with listeners across genres. The official music video adds a visual narrative that enhances the song’s themes of love and destiny, making it a memorable and engaging experience.
The song’s commercial success and cultural impact underscore its significance as a modern crossover hit, showcasing the ability of artists from different genres to collaborate and create something exceptional. “Meant to Be” continues to be celebrated for its relatable message and harmonious blend of musical styles, solidifying its place as a defining track of the late 2010s.
Lyrics:
Baby, lay on back and relax
Kick your pretty feet up on my dash
No need to go nowhere fast
Let’s enjoy right here, where we at
Who knows where this road is supposed to lead
We got nothin’ but time
As long as you right here next time
Everything’s gonna be alright
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby just let it be
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby just let it be
So won’t you ride with me, ride with me
See where this thing goes
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby if it’s meant to be
I don’t need to be so uptight
But my heart’s been hurt a couple times
By a couple guys that didn’t treat me right
I ain’t gonna lie, I ain’t gonna lie
‘Cause I’m tired of the fake love
Show me what you’re made of
Boy, make me believe
Whoa hold up, girl, don’t you know you’re beautiful
And it’s easy to see
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby just let it be
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby just let it be
So won’t you ride with me, ride with me
See where this thing goes
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby if it’s meant to be
So come on ride with me, ride with me,
See where this thing goes
So come on ride with me, ride with me,
Maybe if it’s meant to be
Maybe we do, maybe we don’t
Maybe we will, maybe we won’t
But if it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby just let it be
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby just let it be
So won’t you ride with me, ride with me
See where this thing goes
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby if it’s meant to be
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby if it’s meant to be
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be
Baby if it’s meant to be