When Dua Lipa released Levitating as part of her critically acclaimed 2020 album Future Nostalgia, the track quickly became one of the defining hits of the year. Known for blending futuristic pop with classic influences, Dua Lipa has consistently carved her own space in the contemporary music scene. With Levitating, she brought the perfect balance of 80s-inspired nostalgia, energetic disco beats, and irresistible pop hooks, creating a track that not only dominated airwaves but also became a go-to anthem for feel-good moments and carefree fun.
Featuring the rap verses of DaBaby, Levitating is both a sonic and lyrical journey that celebrates love, attraction, and the magical sense of possibility that comes with new relationships. With its upbeat tempo, infectious chorus, and catchy lyrics, the song is a testament to Dua Lipa’s ability to create music that resonates with listeners on both a personal and universal level. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the song’s composition, its themes, and the cultural significance of Levitating, exploring why this track is so much more than just another pop song.
Musical Composition: Disco Revival Meets Futuristic Pop
One of the standout aspects of Levitating is its musical composition. The song is a brilliant fusion of retro and modern sounds, a perfect reflection of the album Future Nostalgia, which aims to bridge the gap between the past and the future of pop music. Opening with a bouncy, funky bassline and punchy drum rhythms, the track immediately calls back to the heyday of disco, but with a fresh, electrified twist. The groovy beats evoke the spirit of the late 70s and early 80s, while Dua Lipa’s airy yet powerful vocals give the song a contemporary edge.
The production is lush and dynamic, with glittering synths and spacey sound effects weaving in and out of the track. These elements create an almost otherworldly atmosphere that aligns perfectly with the song’s theme of love and exploration. The chorus is where the magic happens, as the infectious melody invites listeners to join in the uplifting vibe. The rhythmic bass and catchy vocal hooks form a hook that’s impossible to ignore, making Levitating a track that instantly gets stuck in your head after the first listen.
The song’s structure is cleverly designed to keep listeners engaged. The verses are smooth and groovy, allowing the build-up toward the chorus to feel natural yet exhilarating. The pre-chorus, with its shimmering synths and Dua Lipa’s soaring vocals, adds a layer of anticipation before the chorus hits with full force. The rap breakdown by DaBaby adds an unexpected twist, injecting a burst of energy into the track and keeping the pace high.
In terms of genre, Levitating draws from several influences, including disco, electro-pop, nu-disco, and even elements of space rock. The vibrant synths and retro-futuristic production bring to mind classic disco hits, but with a modern and innovative twist that makes the song feel fresh and timeless.
Lyrics Analysis: Love, Attraction, and Cosmic Connections
While Levitating is undoubtedly an upbeat, danceable track, it’s also an exploration of romantic attraction and the way love can feel like an otherworldly experience. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a connection that feels predestined, as if written in the stars. From the opening lines, Dua Lipa draws the listener into a fantastical universe where love exists in a cosmic space beyond the ordinary:
“If you wanna run away with me, I know a galaxy / And I can take you for a ride.”
These lines immediately set the stage for a narrative where love feels like an adventure—one that transcends the mundane and enters a fantastical realm. This sense of escapism is a central theme throughout Levitating, as the lyrics invite the listener to imagine a world where love exists without boundaries. The reference to “a galaxy” symbolizes the vast, limitless potential of love and all the possibilities that come with it.
As the song progresses, Dua Lipa continues to paint a picture of a love that is both magical and electrifying. The chorus, with its catchy refrain of “I got you, moonlight, you’re my starlight / I need you all night, come on, dance with me, I’m levitating”, reinforces the idea of a relationship that feels larger than life—one that is bright and radiant like the stars themselves. The metaphors of “moonlight” and “starlight” convey a sense of wonder and longing, as if the romantic connection is so powerful that it transcends earthly boundaries.
What makes the lyrics of Levitating particularly appealing is their sense of lightheartedness and playfulness. There’s no heavy emotional baggage here; rather, the song exudes a carefree energy that encourages the listener to embrace the joy of new love. The repeated phrase “I’m levitating” reinforces the idea that love can elevate us, taking us to new heights and making us feel weightless. The metaphor of levitation is a powerful one—suggesting that love, in its most exhilarating form, can make us feel as though we are defying gravity, floating in a dream-like state.
Even though the song is primarily about attraction and romance, it also touches on the concept of mutual connection and deep understanding between partners. Lyrics like “I believe that you’re for me, I feel it in our energy / I see us written in the stars” suggest that this love is fated—meant to be from the start. The cosmic imagery here implies a sense of destiny, where the two lovers are in perfect harmony, as if the universe itself has conspired to bring them together.
The rap feature by DaBaby adds an interesting layer to the song, shifting the tone slightly while still maintaining the overall playful and carefree vibe. His verse adds a dose of confidence and swagger to the track, but it also complements the song’s themes of romantic escapism and adventure. DaBaby’s contribution serves to heighten the feeling of levitation, giving the song an added sense of fun and excitement.
Cultural Impact and Reception
Upon its release, Levitating quickly became one of the standout tracks from Future Nostalgia. The song’s infectious melody and upbeat tempo made it an instant hit on dance floors, streaming platforms, and radio stations worldwide. It was praised for its catchy, feel-good vibe, and it became a favorite among fans for its energy and positivity.
The track also garnered critical acclaim for its blend of retro influences and modern pop sensibilities. Critics highlighted Dua Lipa’s ability to combine nostalgic sounds with innovative production techniques, calling it a shining example of how pop music can evolve while still paying homage to its roots. Levitating became one of the defining songs of 2020, with its combination of vibrant energy and universal themes making it a timeless anthem for the year.
The music video for Levitating, which features a colorful, dream-like setting and fantastical imagery, further amplified the song’s cosmic theme. With its futuristic visuals and whimsical concept, the video complements the song’s atmosphere, adding another layer of escapism and wonder.
The success of Levitating also marked a significant moment in Dua Lipa’s career. The song cemented her status as one of the leading figures in modern pop, with its chart-topping success further proving her ability to create hits that resonate on both a global and personal level.
Conclusion: A Cosmic Anthem for Love and Freedom
Levitating by Dua Lipa is much more than just a pop song—it’s an anthem for love, freedom, and the boundless possibilities of romantic connection. From its retro-inspired production to its celestial lyrics, the track invites listeners to embrace the carefree joy that comes with new love. The song’s infectious energy, catchy melody, and cosmic imagery make it one of the standout hits of 2020, a track that’s sure to remain a favorite for years to come.
Dua Lipa’s ability to blend nostalgia with modern pop sensibilities continues to set her apart as one of the genre’s most innovative and exciting artists. With Levitating, she has created a song that captures the feeling of falling in love—lighthearted, electrifying, and filled with possibility. Whether you’re dancing to it on a night out or daydreaming about a cosmic connection, Levitating is a song that elevates the spirit and leaves you feeling weightless.