The Power and Pain Behind Kehlani’s “Altar”

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Kehlani has been a defining voice in the R&B scene since she first came onto the scene in 2014. Known for her introspective lyrics and vulnerable performances, her music has always felt intimate and personal. Her 2020 release “It Was Good Until It Wasn’t” was no exception, showcasing her growth and evolution as a songwriter. One of the standout tracks on the album, “Altar,” has left fans wondering about its true meaning. In this article, we’ll explore the deeper themes at play in “Altar.”

The Meaning of “Altar”

At its core, “Altar” is a song about heartbreak and the struggle to move on. In an interview with Vulture, Kehlani described the song as being “about moving on from something you thought was it.” The lyrics are filled with allusions to breaking free from something that has been holding you down. “Bury me until I’m underground / I put my feelings right on the line / Don’t need nobody to help me shine.”

The Pain of Moving On

Despite the empowering message of “Altar,” there’s also a great deal of sadness and pain present in the song. Kehlani’s voice sounds fragile as she sings about wanting to move on but being unable to. “But every time I try to leave, something keeps pulling me right back / It’s like I can’t get enough of this pain.”

For anyone who has ever suffered a break-up, these lyrics will likely resonate. The pain of moving on is often overwhelming, and it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of bad memories and negative thoughts. In “Altar,” Kehlani captures this feeling perfectly.

The Connection to Kehlani’s Personal Life

What makes “Altar” so powerful is its autobiographical nature. Kehlani has been open about her struggles with mental health and depression, and these themes are present in much of her music. In particular, “Altar” seems to reference Kehlani’s tumultuous on-again, off-again relationship with rapper YG.

While the two were never officially confirmed as a couple, they were seen together frequently in late 2019 and early 2020. However, by February of 2020, it was reported that they had called it quits. “Altar” seems to be Kehlani’s way of processing the end of this relationship and finding the strength to move on.

The Power of Vulnerability in Music

One of the reasons that Kehlani’s music is so beloved is because of its vulnerability. She wears her heart on her sleeve and isn’t afraid to delve into difficult subject matter. Fans connect with her not only because of her incredible voice but because of the honesty she brings to her music.

It’s rare to see artists be so open about their struggles with mental health, but Kehlani has made it a focus of her work. In a world where mental health is still stigmatized, it’s refreshing to see an artist who is unashamed to speak out and raise awareness.

The Legacy of “Altar”

“Altar” is already being hailed as one of the standout tracks from “It Was Good Until It Wasn’t.” With its catchy beat and powerful lyrics, it’s a song that is sure to get stuck in your head. But it’s also a song that has a deeper resonance.

For anyone who has ever struggled to move on from a relationship, “Altar” will likely be a source of comfort and inspiration. Kehlani’s honesty about her own experiences is a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles. It’s a message that is sorely needed in today’s world.

Conclusion

“Altar” is a powerful song that speaks to the pain and struggle of moving on. With its autobiographical lyrics and emotional vocals, it’s a song that is sure to touch the hearts of listeners. As Kehlani continues to evolve as an artist, we can’t wait to see what other powerful messages she has in store for us.