emotional affair - Meg Smith
Single Review
By Emily Jordan
The newest single by the self-proclaimed “patron saint of pop music”’ Meg Smith’s latest single is both equally charming and inflammatory, easily bemusing the listener over a steady beat with its chanting chorus.
Just like her past two singles DO YOU LIKE ME? and jesus christ in a mini skirt, Smith’s newest release perfectly balances the concept of a failing relationship with her signature comedic twist. Encased in a soundscape that wouldn’t be amiss as a track on an early 2000s ‘Pop Princesses’ mixtape, it’s clear to see why Rolling Stone named her as one to watch in 2024.
Narrating a partner’s slow descent into betrayal is something often described in pop music, but discussing their infidelity as an aspiration of theirs is a whole new story. With Smith describing the song as about “him cheating (kind of)” through lyrics such as ‘the friction in your feelings’ shows her magnetism as an artist. Her lyrics are covered in personality, and it’s no surprise that she was the choice to support MisterWives on their US tour.
In addition to her likeable character, the marketing of the single captures Smith’s artistry and persona perfectly. Standing on street corners in a cross between a ‘Cheap Car Wash’ promotion and a Love Actually tribute, holding notecards with her lyrics, once again, Smith’s charm extends beyond her sound and into her character.
Growing quickly like her peers, Towa Bird and Molly Grace, it’s clear that pop music is in safe hands.