Lil Nas X

“Sun Goes Down”

WIMITLA. SONG REVIEW

By Alix Sholomon and Elie Weitzman

In a day that has been consumed by talk of Olivia Rodrigo’s newest album, another pop star that seems to be leading the next generation of the genre released some music of his own: “SUN GOES DOWN” by Lil Nas X. The young phenom, who will be appearing on SNL this Saturday, will most likely be singing his controversial hit “MONTERO,” but this song is comparably far more understated and quiet. 

This song carries on Lil Nas X’s message of self acceptance that has become a pattern that is undoubtedly intentional. His songs are pop hits, but their lyrics are heartfelt and authentic, unlike much of the stereotypically pop-ish music that has dominated the genre for years. His take on the traditional billboard-smashing hit is a welcome addition to the industry that we hope is here to stay. That being said, while this song is by no means bad, we simply are not invested enough as fans to truly appreciate the story he’s telling.

The lyrics of this track reveal much about the young artist’s childhood as a black man discovering his sexuality and coming to terms with the fact that he was different from everyone around him. It paints a mosaic of emotions ranging from shame to sadness to acceptance, and truly encapsulates the journey that he has been on. We’ve got nothing bad to say, but it simply doesn’t stand out as much without all the scrutiny and press from angry social media savvy mothers who don’t want their children listening to songs about oppression. 5/10