Solange
Cranes in the Sky
In 2016, Solange Knowles, the talented singer-songwriter and sister of Beyoncé, released "Cranes in the Sky." The song, co-written by Solange herself, delves into themes of self-discovery, healing, and coping with personal struggles. As a standout track from her album "A Seat at the Table," "Cranes in the Sky" gained critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and soulful sound. This article delves into the background, meaning, impact, and interesting facts surrounding "Cranes in the Sky," as well as notable cover versions and its cultural significance.
Writers of the Song, Year Released, and Album:
"Cranes in the Sky" was written by Solange Knowles and Raphael Saadiq. The song was released on September 30, 2016, as part of Solange's critically acclaimed album "A Seat at the Table."
Chart Position and Cultural Relevance:
Upon its release, "Cranes in the Sky" received widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences. The song's soulful blend of R&B and gospel elements resonated with listeners, propelling it to become one of the most memorable tracks on the album. Although "Cranes in the Sky" didn't top mainstream charts, it garnered significant cultural relevance and cemented Solange's status as a profound and innovative artist.
TV Shows and Movies that Used the Song:
"Cranes in the Sky" has been used in various TV shows and movies, adding to its cultural impact. One notable instance of the song's inclusion in popular media is its appearance in the critically acclaimed HBO series "Insecure." The show's creator and star, Issa Rae, carefully curated the soundtrack, and "Cranes in the Sky" was featured in an emotionally poignant scene.
Song Meaning:
"Cranes in the Sky" by Solange is a deeply introspective and emotionally charged song that delves into themes of self-discovery, healing, and coping with emotional pain. The lyrics provide a poignant reflection on the protagonist's journey to find inner peace and acceptance.
The song begins with the verse, "I tried to drink it away / I tried to put one in the air / I tried to dance it away," where Solange describes her attempts to escape her emotional struggles through various distractions such as alcohol, drugs, and partying. These actions represent the temporary solutions people often turn to when trying to numb their pain or fill an emotional void. The metaphor of "cranes in the sky" symbolizes these fleeting escapes, much like cranes soaring high above the ground.
However, in the chorus, Solange acknowledges that these distractions ultimately fail to provide genuine healing. She sings, "But these wings don't make me better / I just might keep it like that," emphasizing her realization that avoiding her feelings won't lead to true transformation. The wings, or "cranes in the sky," are a symbol of these futile attempts to fly away from her troubles.
The second verse deepens the introspective nature of the song, where Solange contemplates how she has tried to suppress her pain through material possessions and achievements. She mentions shopping, a common way people seek temporary happiness through material acquisitions. Still, despite her efforts, she remains unfulfilled, as these external distractions fail to address the root of her emotional struggles.
As the song progresses, Solange acknowledges her desire to change and find true happiness. In the line, "I tried to keep myself busy / I ran around circles / Think I made myself dizzy," she expresses her frantic attempts to stay busy, hoping it would help her escape from her emotional turmoil. Yet, she realizes that constantly running away only leaves her feeling lost and disoriented.
The final chorus captures the essence of the song's message. Solange sings, "But this light inside don't shine for long," implying that these temporary distractions and escapes can't provide lasting joy or fulfillment. She recognizes the importance of facing her emotions head-on and allowing herself to heal authentically.
"Cranes in the Sky" is ultimately a journey towards self-acceptance and the realization that healing requires acknowledging one's emotions and confronting inner struggles. The metaphor of "cranes in the sky" serves as a powerful symbol of fleeting distractions and the search for a sense of weightlessness, freedom, and escape. Solange's raw and soulful vocals, combined with the introspective lyrics, create a deeply resonant and empowering anthem for those seeking self-discovery and healing. Through her vulnerability and emotional depth, Solange invites listeners to reflect on their own paths to self-acceptance and personal growth.
Lyrics:
The lyrics of "Cranes in the Sky" are poetic and introspective, allowing listeners to connect deeply with Solange's emotions and experiences. Her soulful delivery enhances the song's impact, making it a powerful anthem of resilience and vulnerability.
Facts and Interesting Things that Happened While Recording the Song:
While specific details about the recording process for "Cranes in the Sky" are scarce, it is noteworthy that Solange's album "A Seat at the Table" was created over a four-year period. During this time, Solange carefully crafted each song, including "Cranes in the Sky," to reflect her personal experiences and messages of empowerment.
Controversies:
There are no known controversies specifically related to "Cranes in the Sky" by Solange.
Notable Cover Versions:
"Cranes in the Sky" has inspired various artists to create their own interpretations of the song. Notable cover versions include an acoustic rendition by the band Chromatics, which highlights the song's emotional depth in a different musical setting.
"Cranes in the Sky" stands as a testament to Solange's artistry and her ability to create soul-stirring music that resonates deeply with listeners. The song's exploration of self-discovery, healing, and resilience has made it a timeless anthem of empowerment and introspection. Through her heartfelt lyrics and soulful vocals, Solange opens a window into her personal struggles and triumphs, creating a powerful and relatable piece of art.