Justin Bieber. For many, the name conjures images of teenage heartthrob fame, catchy pop tunes, and a journey from youthful idol to mature artist. His music has undeniably soundtracked moments for a generation, evolving through different sounds and styles. When news broke of a new Bieber single, “What Do You Mean?”, anticipation was high. The track quickly soared in popularity, becoming the fastest single to top iTunes charts. Initial listens promised another Bieber hit, but a closer look at the lyrics reveals a more complex and concerning narrative. This isn’t just another catchy pop song; it’s a track that inadvertently wades into the sensitive and crucial topic of consent, raising questions about its portrayal in mainstream music.
The Catchy Tune Hiding a Problematic Message
“What Do You Mean?” immediately grabs attention with its upbeat tempo and infectious melody. It’s classic pop perfection, designed for radio airwaves and dance floors. However, beneath the surface of this summery vibe lies a lyrical landscape that feels increasingly uneasy upon closer inspection. The song’s core issue emerges as a misinterpretation of consent, or rather, a blatant disregard for clearly expressed boundaries. While the rhythm encourages listeners to move and groove, the words paint a picture of a man confused and frustrated by a woman’s mixed signals, ultimately questioning her stated desires. This disconnect between the music’s energy and the lyrical content creates a jarring experience, prompting a deeper examination of the song’s message.
Echoes of “Blurred Lines” and Rape Culture
This unsettling feeling isn’t entirely new in the realm of pop music. The song immediately brings to mind the controversy surrounding Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines.” That track, a massive hit in its time, was later heavily criticized and even labeled a “rape anthem” due to its sexually aggressive and ambiguous lyrics regarding consent. “Blurred Lines” became a focal point in discussions about “rape culture,” a term that describes how societal norms, often perpetuated through popular culture like music and film, can normalize sexual violence and place blame on victims. In the case of “Blurred Lines,” the lyrics suggested an entitlement to a woman’s body, implying that a man could discern her true desires regardless of her verbal or non-verbal cues. Similarly, “What Do You Mean?” seems to tread a similar, precarious path.
“What Do You Mean?”: Lyrics Under the Microscope
Delving into the lyrics of “What Do You Mean?” reveals the source of this unease. The chorus repeats the central question: “What do you mean, when you nod your head yes/ But you wanna say no? When you don’t want me to move/ But you tell me to go.” Bieber’s lyrics highlight a scenario where verbal and non-verbal cues are perceived as contradictory, leading to confusion and, ultimately, the questioning of the woman’s stated “no.” However, the problematic element lies in the assumption that the “no” isn’t genuine, that there’s a hidden “yes” to be deciphered. In the context of consent, this interpretation is dangerous. “No” means no. It shouldn’t be subjected to interrogation, reinterpretation, or dismissal based on perceived mixed signals. The lyrics, in this light, inadvertently contribute to the harmful idea that a woman’s “no” might not truly mean “no.”
The Pressure to “Make Up Your Mind”
Adding another layer of concern is the commanding tone in lines like “Better make up your mind / what do you mean?” and “You’re so confusing / be more straightforward.” The initial question, “what do you mean?”, transforms from a seemingly innocent inquiry into a demand for immediate clarity. It’s no longer just about understanding; it’s about pressuring the woman to swiftly resolve her supposed indecisiveness. This urgency is even underscored by the ticking clock sound effect at the song’s beginning, creating a sense of time pressure. Coupled with the criticism of being “confusing,” these lyrics evoke a scenario where a woman might feel coerced into sexual activity simply to avoid conflict, judgment, or being labeled as difficult or a “tease.” This pressure, even if subtle in a pop song, mirrors real-life situations where women face coercion in sexual encounters.
Indecisiveness and the Right to Change Your Mind
The core issue isn’t just about misinterpreting “no”; it’s also about denying women the right to be indecisive, to explore their boundaries, and to change their minds. Human sexuality is complex and nuanced. Individuals are entitled to navigate their desires and comfort levels without feeling pressured to provide instant, unwavering answers. Saying “no” at any point, even after initially saying “yes” or engaging in some level of intimacy, is valid and must be respected. The idea that women need to “make up their minds” immediately and adhere to that decision throughout an encounter is not only unrealistic but also undermines the fundamental principle of consent, which is ongoing, freely given, and revocable at any time. True consent is about a clear and enthusiastic “yes,” not deciphering hidden meanings or pressuring someone to conform to expectations.
Justin Bieber performs onstage during the 2015 MTV Video Music Awards
Alt text: Justin Bieber performing “What Do You Mean” at the 2015 MTV VMAs, stage lights and audience visible, highlighting the song’s performance context and popularity.
In conclusion, while “What Do You Mean?” might be another catchy hit from Justin Bieber, its lyrics inadvertently touch upon a sensitive and critical issue: consent. By portraying a scenario where a woman’s “no” is questioned and her potential indecisiveness is seen as confusing and frustrating, the song risks perpetuating harmful ideas about sexual communication and boundaries. It serves as a reminder of the powerful influence of music in shaping societal perceptions and the importance of promoting a clear and unequivocal understanding of consent: yes means yes, and anything less is not consent. The message in popular songs carries weight, and in the ongoing conversation about respect and sexual autonomy, clarity is key.
