“Messy”: Lola Young’s Gen Z Anthem

What makes a song go viral and capture the heart of a generation? Lola Young’s “Messy” holds the answer, and it’s a revelation you won’t want to miss…

“This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway” album cover, Lola Young’s sophomore record. Shot by Sophie Jones. Source: Spotify  © All rights belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended

In the hyper-connected digital age, we live a paradox: constantly exposed to external validation, we feel an overwhelming need to appear perfect, happy, and unflawed. Yet, saturated by this perfectionism, there’s an equally powerful yearning to be raw, real, and unapologetically ourselves. It’s in this context of para-social chaos that Lola Young’s viral hit “Messy” has emerged as the unofficial anthem of Gen Z. Its sharp lyrics and soulful sound give voice to a generation that just wants to be accepted for who they are — imperfections and all. As Lola herself poignantly puts it: “Is that not allowed?”

The British singer-songwriter’s “Messy” has been dominating TikTok for weeks, becoming a global sensation that’s climbed into the top three of the UK’s Official Chart and racked up millions of streams on Spotify. The song, taken from her second studio album This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway, dropped in June but only went viral after influencers like Sofia Richie and Kylie Jenner featured its irresistible chorus in their posts. With its brutally honest lyrics, sharp alt-pop production, and retro ‘80s undertones, “Messy” was destined to become a generational anthem—a soundtrack for those navigating toxic relationships, societal pressures, and self-doubt.

The chorus is the heart of the song’s relatability:

“Cause I’m too messy, and then I’m too f**ing clean, you told me get a job then you ask where the hell I’ve been, and I’m too perfect ‘till I open my big mouth”

With a raspy, soulful voice and a no-nonsense attitude, Lola captures the internal conflict of trying to be “just right” while feeling like you’re always falling short. Whether it’s dealing with judgmental parents, a critical partner, or even your own insecurities, “Messy” resonates deeply. It’s no surprise the singer described it as an ADHD anthem - its chaotic energy and unapologetic self-awareness encapsulate the struggles of feeling “too much” in every way.

At just 23, Lola Young’s rise parallels the early trajectory of Billie Eilish. Both share a penchant for moody aesthetics, candid storytelling, and genre-blending soundscapes. But Lola’s artistry is uniquely her own. Born and raised in South East London, Lola’s passion for music has been a lifelong journey. A graduate of the prestigious BRIT School - alma mater to Adele and Amy Winehouse - she signed her first record deal at 18 and released her debut project, Intro, in 2019. By 2021, she had already earned a Rising Star nomination at the BRIT Awards and became the voice of the iconic John Lewis Christmas advert.

However, her path has been anything but straightforward. Lola has been open about her struggles with schizoaffective disorder, a rare mental health condition that she says has profoundly shaped her artistry. “Managing it all has been hard,” she admitted in an interview, “but I’m on meds, and medication has saved my life many times.” Her transparency about mental health - including the stigma surrounding diagnoses like schizophrenia—has made her an even more powerful voice for her generation.

The viral success of “Messy” is also a reflection of a larger cultural shift on social media. Platforms like Instagram once celebrated perfection: airbrushed selfies, curated aesthetics, and picture-perfect lives. But Gen Z, spearheaded by TikTok, has grown tired of this unattainable facade. Today, authenticity reigns supreme. Unfiltered stories, raw emotions, and relatable struggles are rewarded with views, likes, and comments. Lola’s “Messy” fits seamlessly into this new landscape, where being real is more valuable than being flawless.

In an era when many TikTok anthems feel ephemeral, “Messy” stands out for its staying power. Lola’s sharp songwriting and emotive performance remind listeners that imperfection isn’t just acceptable - it’s human. And as the song racks up millions of views on TikTok (nearly 250,000 videos to date), it’s clear that her message is resonating far beyond the platform.

As we head into 2025, Lola Young is poised for an explosive year. Currently on a world tour, she’s proving she’s more than just a TikTok sensation. Onstage, she’s a powerhouse performer, commanding attention with her soulful voice and electric presence. Critics and fans alike are already hailing her as one of the most promising artists of her generation.

Lola Young performing at the Observatory OC. Shot by Lilly Duran. Source: GrimyGoods.com © All rights belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended

Her latest album, This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway, showcases a bold evolution in her sound. Produced with her longtime collaborator Solomonophonic, it’s a chameleonic mix of pop, British subcultures, and personal storytelling. Lola describes it as “an amalgamation of different things” and “an ode to the music I grew up on.” From rage-filled ballads to moments of humor, the album captures the multifaceted nature of her artistry.

In a recent interview, Lola reflected on the makings of a true anthem. “It’s got to have an incredibly catchy chorus,” she explained. “It’s got to say something in a way nobody else has said it before. And it’s got to move music forward.” With “Messy,” she’s done exactly that. It’s not just a pop song; it’s a cultural statement—a rallying cry for anyone who’s ever felt too much or not enough.

Lola Young is a force to be reckoned with. Her raw talent, unfiltered honesty, and ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level set her apart in a crowded industry. As “Messy” continues to climb the charts and her tour garners rave reviews, there’s no doubt that 2025 will be a landmark year for this rising star. For now, though, she’s content to remind us all that it’s okay to be messy. After all, that’s what makes us human.