Sabrina Carpenter‘s “Espresso” is a playful and self-assured pop song that combines clever wordplay with themes of confidence, individuality, and romantic allure. It went on to be one of the biggest songs of 2024, winning multiple Grammys.
Below you’ll find a section-by-section interpretation of the lyrics in “Espresso.”
- Song: Espresso
- Artist: Sabrina Carpenter
- Songwriters: Sabrina Carpenter, Julian Bunetta, Amy Allen, Steph Jones
- Released: 2024
- Album: Short n’ Sweet
- Genre: Pop, Funk, Disco
“Espresso” Meaning: Line by Line
Chorus: Her Irresistible Effect
Now he’s thinkin’ ’bout me every night, oh
Is it that sweet? I guess so
She considers how her presence stays in someone’s mind, causing them to think about her constantly.
The phrase “Is it that sweet?” questions whether this effect is as intense and powerful as it feels.
Say you can’t sleep, baby, I know
That’s that me espresso
She connects the person’s sleeplessness to her effect, comparing it to the stimulating nature of espresso.
This implies that the person can’t stop thinking about her, even keeping them awake at night.
Move it up, down, left, right, oh
Switch it up like Nintendo
These lines blend the directional movements that could apply to sex, dancing, and gaming.
The phrase “Switch it up like Nintendo” cleverly plays on the word “switch,” referencing both the sexual/dance movements and the gaming console.
Verse 1: Confidence and Control
I can’t relate to desperation
My give-a-fucks are on vacation
She is confident and carefree, expressing that she doesn’t feel desperate for anyone’s attention.
She’s relaxed and unapologetically indifferent to conventional expectations.
And I got this one boy and he won’t stop calling
When they act this way, I know I got ’em
Here, she recognizes that when a person shows this level of interest, she knows she’s succeeded in captivating them.
The “won’t stop calling” indicates their obsession with her.
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Pre-Chorus: Playful Dominance
Too bad your ex don’t do it for ya
Walked in and dream-came-trued it for ya
She compares herself to the person’s ex, suggesting that she does things their ex never could, presenting herself as a much more exciting alternative.
Soft skin and I perfumed it for ya
I know I Mountain Dew it for ya
She continues to build her image of sensuality, claiming to be refreshing and stimulating, like Mountain Dew.
The playful tone shows her confidence in keeping the person intrigued.
That morning coffee, brewed it for ya
One touch and I brand-newed it for ya
Using metaphors, she compares herself to a morning coffee, something that refreshes and invigorates the person’s life, as well as a new touch that brings a sense of novelty.
Verse 2: Self-Assured and Playful
I’m working late ’cause I’m a singer
Oh, he looks so cute wrapped ’round my finger
This verse shows her busy lifestyle as an artist, yet she still holds power over the person, who is clearly infatuated with her.
The “wrapped ’round my finger” metaphor highlights her control.
My twisted humor make him laugh so often
My honeybee, come and get this pollen
She uses humor and charm to keep the person entertained and coming back for more.
The “honeybee” and “pollen” metaphor suggests attraction and sweetness, reinforcing her allure.
Post-Chorus: Final Thought
Holy shit
Is it that sweet? I guess so
She playfully acknowledges the sweetness of her effect, maintaining a casual tone while highlighting her strong influence.
Similar Songs to “Espresso”
Here are three songs that share thematic and stylistic similarities with Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso”:
1. “Me Too” by Meghan Trainor
This song celebrates self-confidence and individuality. Like “Espresso,” “Me Too” has playful lyrics and an infectious beat that encourages self-love and empowerment.
2. “Sweet But Psycho” by Ava Max
“Sweet But Psycho” explores the complexities of attraction and individuality, echoing the energy and allure of “Espresso.”
3. “No Tears Left to Cry” by Ariana Grande
“No Tears Left to Cry” mixes upbeat dance rhythms with lyrics about healing and moving forward. It mirrors the confidence found in Carpenter’s “Espresso.”
Conclusion
“Espresso” is a vibrant celebration of confidence, charm, and playful energy. Sabrina Carpenter‘s clever wordplay and dynamic delivery bring the song’s themes to life, making it a standout track on Short n’ Sweet.
Whether as a metaphor for irresistible allure or an expression of self-assured individuality, “Espresso” captures the listener’s attention with its infectious rhythm and layered storytelling.
You can listen to “Espresso” right now on Spotify and Amazon.
Find “Espresso” and other great songs on the Best Songs About Coffee list!
