Amidst the vibrant pop culture landscape of 2014, Cheryl, the British pop sensation formerly known as Cheryl Cole, released a heartfelt and raw anthem titled "Only Human". This single, part of her fourth studio album also named Only Human, stood out as a powerful and introspective look at vulnerability and resilience, something that resonates with many today. The track was released in the UK on March 22, 2015. Bringing together the songwriting prowess of Cheryl, Matt Schwartz, Jo Perry, and Cass Lowe, the song dives into the universally relatable theme of being perfectly imperfect and embracing one’s humanity.
Cheryl’s "Only Human" was crafted at a time where pop music often emphasized escapism and grandeur. Still, she chose to reflect the imperfections of life, grounding her glamorous persona with relatable honesty. The track’s lyrics epitomize the message that it's okay not to be okay, a message significant across generational boundaries but particularly poignant for Gen Z, who are navigating a world that demands perfection in an era of social media curation and pressure. The liberating anthem stands as a soft reminder that being human is messy, and that’s perfectly fine.
The song itself is an embodiment of the mixture of pop and electronic elements, combined to create a haunting yet uplifting experience. The instrumentation features a minimalistic but effective use of beats and synths that allow Cheryl’s voice to shine through, delivering even the subtlest emotions embedded within. Listeners find themselves swaying to its beat, feeling the highs and lows of their own unpredictabilities.
Cheryl’s journey to creating "Only Human" is one filled with introspection. Known initially for her more up-tempo hits and dance anthems, shifting gears to a song that stripped away artifice showcased her growth as an artist. For many fans who encountered this single, it offered a perspective of authenticity that strayed from the pop scene’s usual flashy veneer.
On the political and cultural side, embracing raw emotion in music during an era of surface-level online interactions was bold. It was a period when mental health discussions began gaining more traction. Cheryl’s song subtly advocated for understanding and kindness towards oneself, aligning with the broader move towards destigmatizing mental health issues.
Critics were somewhat divided. Some appreciated Cheryl’s vulnerability, applauding her for stepping out of her comfort zone. Others critiqued it for not aligning with typical pop chart-toppers in style and commercial appeal. Yet, this division highlights precisely why "Only Human" is essential. Gen Z, navigating an often contradictory world that is at once more connected and isolated than ever, finds solace in music that speaks to authenticity over perfection.
Cheryl also took the step of portraying this message through the song's music video, which further showcased the blend of strength and vulnerability. Featuring her in various settings, the visual journey complements the song’s lyrical themes, offering a soothing aesthetic to match the introspective tone. Through images of nature, light, and shadow, the video holds a mirror up to the multifaceted human experience.
Understanding “Only Human” goes beyond just a listening experience; it invites reflection. At its core, the song encourages listeners to embrace their flaws, to understand that stumbling is not a weakness, but a testament to living an authentic life. For a generation faced with constant comparisons and the looming idea that everyone has everything figured out, this message takes on new, urgent meanings.
Those who resonate with the idea of intrinsic value over curated persona find a sense of camaraderie in the song's narrative. Critics from a different perspective, mostly preferring traditional pop personas, might view this work as too raw or lacking the typical emotional shield in pop music. But it serves as a reminder that art does not always have to force-fit into conventional molds to be impactful.
As we dissect the essence of "Only Human", the song persistently nudges us towards recognizing the power of sincerity in art. In a generation that values transparency and realness over perfection, Cheryl’s work shines brightly, making this track an anthem for those who strive to live authentically, flaws and all.