What Do You Mean? – Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber’s hit song “What Do You Mean?” marked a significant moment in his career, representing a shift towards a more mature sound and lyrical content. Released on August 28, 2015, as the lead single from his fourth studio album Purpose, the song quickly became a chart-topper and garnered acclaim for its catchy melody and introspective lyrics. Let’s explore the story behind “What Do You Mean?” and its impact on Justin Bieber’s musical journey.

The Creation of “What Do You Mean?”
“What Do You Mean?” was co-written by Justin Bieber himself along with Jason “Poo Bear” Boyd and Mason Levy, known as MdL. The song was produced by MdL and Bieber’s frequent collaborator, Skrillex, who also contributed to the track’s electronic and dance-pop elements. The song’s production features pulsating beats, atmospheric synths, and a memorable guitar riff, creating a dynamic and upbeat sound that blends pop sensibilities with EDM influences.

Themes and Lyrics
Lyrically, “What Do You Mean?” delves into themes of confusion, miscommunication, and vulnerability in a romantic relationship. The song captures the uncertainty and mixed signals that often accompany new beginnings and emotional entanglements. Bieber’s introspective lyrics reflect a deeper maturity and self-awareness, contrasting with his earlier teen-pop image and showcasing his growth as an artist.

The chorus, with its infectious hook “What do you mean? / When you nod your head yes, but you wanna say no / What do you mean?”, encapsulates the song’s central theme of deciphering conflicting emotions and intentions. Bieber’s smooth vocals and emotive delivery add depth to the song’s narrative, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar challenges in their own relationships.

Music Video and Visuals
The music video for “What Do You Mean?” was directed by Brad Furman and features Bieber alongside actress and model Xenia Deli. The video’s narrative explores themes of suspense and intrigue, as Bieber navigates a complex storyline involving a clandestine relationship and mysterious encounters. The video’s sleek cinematography, stylish visuals, and choreographed dance sequences complement the song’s energetic vibe, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Reception and Impact
Upon its release, “What Do You Mean?” received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its production, Bieber’s vocal performance, and its catchy hooks. The song debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it Bieber’s first number-one single in the United States. It also topped charts in several other countries and achieved commercial success globally, solidifying Bieber’s status as a dominant force in contemporary pop music.

The song’s success on streaming platforms and radio airplay contributed to its cultural impact and influence on popular music trends. “What Do You Mean?” became a fixture on playlists and a favorite among fans, showcasing Bieber’s ability to evolve as an artist while maintaining his appeal to a diverse audience.

Cultural Significance and Legacy
“What Do You Mean?” marked a pivotal moment in Justin Bieber’s career, signaling his transition from a teen idol to a more mature and introspective artist. The song’s blend of pop, EDM, and R&B elements resonated with listeners of all ages, cementing its place as a defining track in Bieber’s discography. Its success paved the way for subsequent singles from the Purpose album, including “Sorry” and “Love Yourself,” which further solidified Bieber’s comeback and reaffirmed his place as a global pop superstar.

Conclusion
“What Do You Mean?” by Justin Bieber stands as a testament to his artistic growth and musical versatility. With its infectious melody, introspective lyrics, and dynamic production, the song captured the hearts of fans worldwide and propelled Bieber to new heights of fame and success. As a standout track from the Purpose album, “What Do You Mean?” continues to be celebrated for its cultural impact and enduring popularity, showcasing Bieber’s evolution as an artist and his ability to connect with audiences through compelling storytelling and relatable themes.

Lyrics:
What do you mean?
When you nod your head yes
But you wanna say no
What do you mean?
When you don’t want me to move
But you tell me to go
What do you mean?
Said we’re running out of time
Trying to catch the beat make up your mind
What do you mean?
Better make up your mind
What do you mean?
You’re so indecisive of what I’m saying
Don’t want us to end where do I start
First you wanna go left and you want to turn right
First you up and you’re down and then between

Ohh I really want to know…

When you nod your head yes
But you wanna say no
What do you mean?
What do you mean?
But you tell me to go
Said we’re running out of time
What do you mean?
Better make up your mind
What do you mean?
You’re overprotective when I’m leaving
Trying to compromise but I can’t win
You wanna make a point but you keep preaching
You had me from the start won’t let this end
First you wanna go left and you want to turn right
Wanna argue all day make love all night
First you up and you’re down and then between
Ohh I really want to know…
What do you mean?
When you nod your head yes
What do you mean?
When you don’t want me to move
But you tell me to go
What do you mean?
Said we’re running out of time
What do you mean?
Better make up your mind
What do you mean?