PUNK ROCKY on Replay, by Karla Garcia

I’m replaying A$AP Rocky’s new song “PUNK ROCKY.” This track is such a vibe and makes me feel like a lovesick punk kid. It's emotional and witty, creating an alternative hip-hop sound filled with grunge and melodic rap. 

Call me uncultured because this is my first time listening to A$AP Rocky. I don’t blame you, but don’t worry, I’m eager to expand my taste and dive into the experimental rap/hip-hop genre. “PUNK ROCKY” may be my introduction to A$AP Rocky, but it won’t be the last time I hear his music. While some tracks are more explicit than what I'm used to hearing, I’m captured by his expressive narratives and musical blends. For me, “PUNK ROCKY” is a sonic experience, one that pulls me into a wave of emotions. I’m sad, I’m vibing, I’m over love songs. This song is a perfect soundtrack for days when everything feels like too much. Because let’s face it, we all “sometimes…forget what love is.” 

Beginning with electric chords and a sharp beat, A$AP Rocky’s gritty tone follows. A thumping bass completes the instrumental throughout the song. Sliding guitar sounds and echoey vocal effects create an ethereal mood. His rap technique is laid-back, but make no mistake, it’s a solid delivery. A$AP Rocky brings a punchy sound, highlighting his ability to move across genres and foster his own alternative flow. 

Lyrically, PUNK ROCKY is raw, expressing the effects of one-sided love. Take the lines: “I thought I fell in love, I thought she felt it too” and “I cried alone in my truck, yeah / I felt alone in the front 'cause I don't know who to trust.”  

“PUNK ROCKY” also shows A$AP Rocky’s rebellious side. He’s over this relationship, but ironically, doesn’t want it to end. The final lyrics, “Right now, I'd like to apologize, take me back,” point out this juxtaposition. The “punk” in him wants to fight back, fight for love, all while hoping to escape the pain. 

Like dang. I’ve never experienced heartbreak, but thanks to this song, I get it. Every listen brings me to a liminal space, where I just got dumped. Everything around me is trippy, distorted sounds and words are all around. Is this what love feels like? And then I’m back to reality, thinking, “What the heck, this is such a good song!” and then I play it again. 

“PUNK ROCKY” was released as a single this month and featured on A$AP Rocky’s fourth studio album, Don’t Be Dumb, released on January 16th. This track is not easy to forget, bringing out feelings you didn’t even know you had. Let it resonate with you this season. Valentine’s Day may be over, but sad boy music is always in fashion.