New Rules – Dua Lipa

Released on July 7, 2017, “New Rules” by British singer Dua Lipa quickly ascended to become an empowering anthem for many. The song, which is the sixth single from her self-titled debut studio album, not only showcases Dua Lipa’s vocal prowess but also delivers a strong message about self-respect and moving on from toxic relationships. The accompanying official music video, directed by Henry Scholfield, adds a visually compelling layer to the song’s narrative, further solidifying its impact. This article delves into the creation, themes, and cultural significance of “New Rules,” exploring how it resonated with listeners and helped shape Dua Lipa’s career.

The Creation of “New Rules”
“New Rules” was written by Caroline Ailin, Emily Warren, and Ian Kirkpatrick, with Kirkpatrick also handling the production. The songwriting process focused on crafting a track that would be both catchy and meaningful, addressing the struggles of breaking free from a detrimental romantic relationship. The song’s infectious beat and memorable chorus are a testament to the trio’s songwriting skills and Kirkpatrick’s adept production.

Musically, “New Rules” is a blend of tropical house and electropop, featuring a pulsating beat, sleek production, and Dua Lipa’s distinctive, husky vocals. The song’s structure is built around a series of “rules” that the protagonist must follow to avoid falling back into a toxic relationship. This concept of setting boundaries and self-discipline is conveyed through a series of escalating pre-choruses and choruses that are as catchy as they are empowering.

Themes of Empowerment and Self-Respect
At its core, “New Rules” is a song about empowerment and self-respect. The lyrics outline a set of guidelines designed to help someone avoid returning to a harmful ex. The rules are straightforward and practical, yet deeply resonant: “One, don’t pick up the phone / You know he’s only calling ’cause he’s drunk and alone / Two, don’t let him in / You’ll have to kick him out again / Three, don’t be his friend / You know you’re gonna wake up in his bed in the morning.”

These rules are not just instructions; they represent a broader message of self-empowerment and taking control of one’s own life. The repetition of the rules throughout the song emphasizes the importance of commitment to these guidelines, mirroring the internal struggle that often accompanies attempts to move on from a difficult relationship.

The Official Music Video
The official music video for “New Rules,” directed by Henry Scholfield, adds a visually striking and narrative-driven layer to the song. Set in a vibrant Miami hotel, the video features Dua Lipa and a group of women supporting each other in their quest to follow the “new rules.” The choreography is synchronized and symbolic, depicting the solidarity and strength found in female friendship.

The video begins with Dua Lipa in a hotel room, being comforted and guided by her friends as she attempts to adhere to the rules. The scenes shift between various rooms and outdoor settings within the hotel, showcasing the women moving together in unison, symbolizing unity and mutual support. The pastel color palette and stylish cinematography create a visually appealing aesthetic that complements the song’s upbeat yet serious tone.

The final scene, where Dua Lipa and her friends are seen walking away from the hotel in solidarity, underscores the song’s message of empowerment and moving forward. The video’s portrayal of strong, supportive female friendships resonated with many viewers, making it a viral sensation and a staple in pop culture discussions about female empowerment.

Reception and Impact
“New Rules” received widespread critical acclaim and achieved significant commercial success. The song reached number one on the UK Singles Chart, making Dua Lipa the first female solo artist to top the chart in nearly two years. It also charted in the top ten in multiple countries, including the United States, Australia, and Canada.

The music video’s impact was equally significant, amassing millions of views within days of its release. It quickly became a cultural touchstone, with its choreography and message being widely emulated and referenced across social media platforms. The video’s success contributed to Dua Lipa’s rise as a prominent figure in the music industry and solidified her status as a role model for young women.

Cultural Significance and Legacy
“New Rules” holds a significant place in contemporary pop music, particularly as a song that champions self-empowerment and resilience. Its themes of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-respect resonated deeply with listeners who found themselves in similar situations. The song’s relatable message and catchy melody made it an anthem for those seeking strength and independence in the face of challenging relationships.

The song’s impact extended beyond its initial release, influencing discussions about modern relationships and the importance of self-care. “New Rules” became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless covers, parodies, and social media challenges. Its message of empowerment and self-reliance continues to inspire listeners, making it a timeless piece in Dua Lipa’s discography.

Conclusion
“New Rules” by Dua Lipa is more than just a pop song; it is a powerful anthem that encourages self-respect and empowerment. With its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and visually compelling music video, the song captured the hearts of millions and solidified Dua Lipa’s place in the music industry. As a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and uplift, “New Rules” remains a defining moment in contemporary pop, reflecting the importance of setting boundaries and finding strength in oneself and one’s community.

Lyrics:
One, one, one, one, one…

Talkin’ in my sleep at night, makin’ myself crazy
(Out of my mind, out of my mind)
Wrote it down and read it out, hopin’ it would save me
(Too many times, too many times)

My love, he makes me feel like nobody else, nobody else
But my love, he doesn’t love me, so I tell myself, I tell myself

One: Don’t pick up the phone
You know he’s only callin’ ’cause he’s drunk and alone
Two: Don’t let him in
You’ll have to kick him out again
Three: Don’t be his friend
You know you’re gonna wake up in his bed in the morning
And if you’re under him, you ain’t gettin’ over him

I got new rules, I count ’em
I got new rules, I count ’em
I gotta tell them to myself
I got new rules, I count ’em
I gotta tell them to myself

I keep pushin’ forwards, but he keeps pullin’ me backwards
(Nowhere to turn, no way)
(Nowhere to turn, no)
Now I’m standin’ back from it, I finally see the pattern
(I never learn, I never learn)

But my love, he doesn’t love me, so I tell myself, I tell myself
I do, I do, I do

I got new rules, I count ’em
I got new rules, I count ’em
I gotta tell them to myself
I got new rules, I count ’em
I gotta tell them to myself

Practice makes perfect
I’m still tryna learn it by heart (I got new rules, I count ’em)
Eat, sleep, and breathe it
Rehearse and repeat it, ’cause I… (I got new…)

One: Don’t pick up the phone (yeah)
You know he’s only callin’ ’cause he’s drunk and alone (alone)
Two: Don’t let him in (uh-ooh)
You’ll have to kick him out again (again)
Three: Don’t be his friend
You know you’re gonna wake up in his bed in the morning
And if you’re under him, you ain’t gettin’ over him

I got new rules, I count ’em
I got new rules, I count ’em
(Whoa-ooh, whoa-ooh, whoa)
I gotta tell them to myself
I got new rules, I count ’em
(Baby, you know I count ’em)
I gotta tell them to myself

Don’t let him in, don’t let him in
Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t…
Don’t be his friend, don’t be his friend
Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t…
Don’t let him in, don’t let him in
Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t…
Don’t be his friend, don’t be his friend
Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t…
You’re gettin’ over him

Dua Lipa