"Whatever" is a collaboration between Ava Max and Kygo, released on January 19, 2024.
Background[]
Max posted behind the scenes photos throughout December 2023 of the video shoot.
Kygo posted a snippet of the song on January 3, 2024 on his social media platforms.
Kygo posted another snippet on January 5, this time with Max's LQ vocals. Ava then posted a HQ snippet later that day. [1] Ava and Kygo later promoted the song further by making more TikToks about it.
Two of the song's writers demos leaked on January 30, 2024.
Audios[]
Whatever (The Remixes)[]
- Whatever (Acoustic) - 3:45
- Whatever (Lavern Remix) - 2:47
- Whatever (Klangkarussell Remix) - 8:20
- Whatever (Frank Walker Remix) - 3:05
- Whatever (Tiësto Remix) - 2:46
Music Video[]
The music video was directed by Dano Cerny and was released a few hours after the song itself.
The video depicts Max in a desert wearing two all black outfits, one made of leather and the other a dress. The intro scene includes a telephone booth, which then frequently cuts between Max and the landscape. After the first chorus, reflective blue gems are shows flying into the sky.
The video also contains several religious references. For example, Max is seen wearing three crosses on her neck in one scene (possibly referencing her third album) while holding a rosary in another. Several leaning Joshua trees also make an appearance.
Trivia[]
- The song interpolates "Whenever, Wherever" by Shakira.
- Shakira posted the song on Instagram stories with the caption "Loving this version!" and tagging Max and Kygo.
- The song peaked at #1 on the Worldwide iTunes Song Chart, becoming Max's first song to do so.
- The song also peaked at #1 on the European iTunes Song Chart.
- The song was also Max's biggest full-day Spotify debut, reaching over 1.5 million streams.
- Max's top of her second outfit in the music video is very similar to the one worn in the "Who's Laughing Now" Amazon live performance.
- "Whatever” could be a continuation of “OMG What's Happening,” due to the same location, phone booth, and purple car seen in the music video.
- The song was made in Logic Pro X.
Song Meaning[]
The song 'Whatever' delves into the emotions and thoughts of someone who has gone through a breakup and is coming to terms with the end of a relationship. The protagonist reflects on the challenges of getting over their ex-partner and the internal struggles they face when encountering reminders of the past.
Through the emotional journey depicted in the lyrics, the song portrays feelings of resignation and acceptance. The protagonist acknowledges that the relationship was not healthy or fulfilling, leading to a sense of liberation and empowerment in letting go.
Ava Max's vocals bring a sense of defiance and self-assurance to the song, emphasizing the message of independence and resilience. The repeated refrain of 'Won't see me cry no tears' reinforces the idea of emotional strength and moving forward without dwelling on the past.
Overall, 'Whatever' conveys a message of self-reliance and closure after a breakup, highlighting the importance of prioritizing one's own well-being and happiness. The song serves as an anthem of empowerment and liberation from toxic relationships.
Lyrics[]
[Verse 1]
There’s a space in my heart
When it all comes crashing down
Anytime I hear your name out in public
There’s a place that I go
Every time that you’re in town
It’s just me
And the knots in my stomach
[Pre-Chorus]
And it’s true
It wasn’t easy
Getting over you
But that’s just what I had to do
[Chorus]
Whatever, whatever
We were never good together
I’ll be here
And you stay there
Truth is I never cared
Whatever, whatever
Two years that ain’t forever
I’ll be here
And you stay there
Won’t see me cry no tears
[Verse 2]
Nevermind, nevermind
Feels like you were never mine
Go lose myself
In the arms of a stranger
And yeah it sucks
Sometimes in love
You try your best but it doesn’t work out
But it don’t matter either way
[Chorus]
Whatever, whatever
We were never good together
I’ll be here
And you stay there
Truth is I never cared
Whatever, whatever
Two years that ain’t forever
I’ll be here
And you stay there
Won’t see me cry no tears
[Breakdown]
[Chorus]
Whatever, whatever
We were never good together
I’ll be here
And you stay there
Truth is I never cared
Whatever, whatever
Two years that ain’t forever
I’ll be here
And you stay there
Won’t see me cry no tears
Gallery[]
Behind The Scenes[]
Videos[]
