Empowering Anthems or Simplistic Stereotypes? A Critical Look at Ava Max's "Kings & Queens"

Ava Max's hit song "Kings & Queens" has garnered attention for its catchy melody and empowering lyrics that seemingly celebrate female strength and independence. However, a closer examination reveals both strengths and shortcomings in the song's portrayal of gender roles and empowerment.

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On the positive side, the chorus emphasizes a sense of unity and celebration among women. The idea that "if all of the kings had their queens on the throne, we would pop champagne and raise a toast" conveys a message of solidarity and collective empowerment. It suggests a vision where men and women are equal partners, sharing in each other's victories.

The lyrics also challenge traditional gender roles by rejecting the notion of a damsel in distress. Ava Max asserts her independence with lines like "No damsel in distress, don't need to save me" and "Once I start breathin' fire, you can't tame me." These lines attempt to break free from stereotypes and portray women as strong and self-reliant.

However, the song falls short in its simplistic portrayal of power dynamics between men and women. The lyrics reinforce a binary view of gender, with kings representing men and queens representing women. While the intention might be to empower women, this approach oversimplifies the complexities of gender relations and undermines the diversity of individuals' experiences.

Furthermore, the repeated emphasis on physical strength and the size of a hypothetical sword in lines like "But if I had one, it'd be bigger than yours" could be seen as reinforcing toxic masculinity. The measure of strength and power should extend beyond physical attributes, and the song missed an opportunity to explore a more nuanced understanding of empowerment.

Another point of critique lies in the chorus's celebration of queens "fighting alone." While the intention may be to highlight individual strength, it inadvertently reinforces the idea that success is achieved in isolation. True empowerment often comes from collective efforts and support, and the song could have benefited from a more inclusive perspective.

Check out the lyrics of "Kings & Queen" below.

If all of the kings had their queens on the throne
We would pop champagne and raise a toast
To all of the queens who are fighting alone
Baby, you're not dancin' on your own

Can't live without me, you wanna, but you can't, no, no, no
Think it's funny, but honey, can't run this show on your own
I can feel my body shake, there's only so much I can take
I'll show you how a real queen behaves, oh

No damsel in distress, don't need to save me
Once I start breathin' fire, you can't tame me
And you might think I'm weak without a sword
But if I had one, it'd be bigger than yours

If all of the kings had their queens on the throne
We would pop champagne and raise a toast
To all of the queens who are fighting alone
Baby, you're not dancin' on your own

Disobey me, then baby, it's off with your head
Gonna change it and make it a world you won't forget, oh-oh, oh
No damsel in distress, don't need to save me
Once I start breathin' fire, you can't tame me
And you might think I'm weak without a sword
But I'm stronger than I ever was before

If all of the kings had their queens on the throne
We would pop champagne and raise a toast
To all of the queens who are fighting alone
Baby, you're not dancin' on your own

In chess, the king can move one space at a time
But queens are free to go wherever they like
You get too close, you'll get a royalty high
So breathe it in to feel alive (alive)

If all of the kings had their queens on the throne
We would pop champagne and raise a toast
To all of the queens who are fighting alone
Baby, you're not dancin' on your own

Source: LyricFind

Written: Amanda Koci / Brett Leland McLaughlin / Desmond Child / Henry Walter / Hillary Bernstein / Jakke Erixson / Madison Love / Mimoza Blinson / Nadir Khayat

Kings & Queens lyrics © Budde Music Publishing GmbH, Reach Music Publishing, Songtrust Ave, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc

In conclusion, "Kings & Queens" by Ava Max is a catchy anthem that attempts to champion female empowerment. However, its oversimplified portrayal of gender dynamics and reliance on traditional stereotypes detract from its potential impact. As we continue to strive for a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of empowerment, songs like these should challenge rather than reinforce existing norms.