“Anaheim” is a song by NIKI, an Indonesian singer-songwriter known for her evocative lyrics and emotional depth. The song was released as part of her album Moonchild and has resonated with many listeners for its poignant narrative and personal themes.

Meaning

Nostalgia and Reflection: “Anaheim” explores into themes of nostalgia, longing, and the passage of time. The title itself refers to Anaheim, a city in California, which may symbolize a place tied to significant memories or experiences for the artist. The song reflects on the bittersweet nature of revisiting a place or moment that holds emotional weight, particularly in the context of a past relationship or a pivotal time in one’s life.

Lost Love and Heartbreak: At its core, “Anaheim” explores the pain and complexity of lost love. The lyrics convey a sense of yearning for a past connection, intertwined with the realization that the relationship has changed or ended. NIKI’s delivery is imbued with emotion, capturing the sense of melancholy that accompanies remembering something beautiful that is now out of reach.

Personal Growth: Alongside the themes of loss and reflection, “Anaheim” also touches on personal growth and the journey of moving forward. Even as the song dwells on past memories, there is an underlying message of resilience and the acceptance of change. This duality—of holding onto the past while also recognizing the necessity of growth—is a central element of the song’s meaning.

“Anaheim” by NIKI is a deeply emotional song that captures the complexities of memory, love, and personal growth. Through its introspective lyrics and haunting melody, the song invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and loss, making it a powerful and relatable piece of music.

Anaheim Lyrics

[Verse 1]
If I could, I’d freeze this moment, make it my home
You’re all I want to want to know
I can tell, you mean it when you kiss me slow
But please, don’t ask me, the answer’s no
In a perfect world, I’d kill to love you the loudest
But all I do is live to hurt you soundless
Say, “You see I’m lying, babe” and let this go
I can never promise you tomorrow

[Pre-Chorus 1]
‘Cause I have yet to learn
How not to be his
This city will surely burn
If we keep this as it is

[Chorus 1]
But I’d give anything to stop time
And drive around Anaheim at sundown
To teach my mind to put you first
Here you are, a hero
You wanna be my new home
But baby, let up, I won’t ever recognize these roads
‘Cause I am lost, but not in you
Yes, I am lost, but not in you

[Verse 2]
I could spend my days studying your laugh’s melody
And I can’t live with myself ’cause I know you’d die for me
Oh, all I ask of you is please don’t sleep
On this bed of promises I can’t keep

[Pre-Chorus 2]
‘Cause I have yet to know
How to be mine
You can try to unearth this soul
I swear you’ll hate what you find
(Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-ooh-oh)
(Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-ooh-oh)
(Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-ooh-oh)

[Chorus 2]
But I’d give anything to stop time
Commit to you and not crimes against the truth
And lose sight of every divide threatening to undo this story
But baby, I’m so sorry
I don’t think that I’ll ever memorize this route
‘Cause I am lost, but not in you
Yes, I am lost, but not in you
(Oh-oh, oh-oh-ooh-oh-oh, oh-oh)

Other Songs from Nicole Album

• Backburner