Boygenius is an American indie rock supergroup formed in 2018 by singer-songwriters Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus. They first released a self-titled EP that highlighted their unique styles, blending beautifully.
Their music features honest and emotional lyrics about love, loss, and friendship, deeply connecting with listeners. In 2023, they released their debut full album, The Record, which received critical acclaim, topped charts, and won several major awards, including Grammys.
Known for their strong friendship and shared values, Boygenius has made a significant impact on indie music despite currently being on hiatus.
About the Song
Cool About It discusses the struggle of hiding deep feelings while trying to appear calm and unaffected. The song tells of a person who meets someone they care about but faces unspoken emotions and longing.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | March 31, 2023 |
| Album | The Record (2023) |
| Writers | Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus |
| Producers | Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus |
Meaning Behind the Song
The song describes a meeting at a dive bar where the narrator tries to keep things light but wrestles with deep feelings they can’t openly express.
Lyrics like I’m trying to be cool about it show the attempt to mask pain, while feelin’ like an absolute fool about it reveals the inner conflict of longing and regret.
The line about taking someone’s medication metaphorically suggests trying to understand the other person’s world, highlighting the complexity and imbalance in the relationship.
Overall, the song captures the tension between wanting connection and the difficulty of facing painful truths, making it a raw and relatable reflection on hidden emotions and unresolved feelings.
Cool About It Lyrics by Boygenius
Verse 1: Baker
Met you at the dive bar to go shoot some pool
And make fun of the cowboys with the neck tattoos
Ask you easy questions about work and school
Chorus: Baker
I’m trying to be cool about it
Feelin’ like an absolute fool about it
Wishin’ you were kind enough to be cruel about it
Tellin’ myself I can always do without it
Knowing that it probably isn’t true
Verse 2: Dacus, All
I came prepared for absolution, if you’d only ask
So I take some offense when you say, “No regrets”
I remember it’s impossible to pass your test
Chorus: All, Dacus
But I’m trying to forget about it
Feelin’ like I’m breaking a sweat about it
Wishin’ you would kindly get out of my head about it
Tеllin’ myself, one day, I’ll forget about it
Knowing that it probably isn’t truе
Verse 3: Bridgers All
Once, I took your medication to know what it’s like
And now I have to act like I can’t read your mind
I ask you how you’re doing and I let you lie
Chorus: All
But we don’t have to talk about it
I can walk you home and practice method acting
I’ll pretend bein’ with you doesn’t feel like drowning
Tellin’ you it’s nice to see how good you’re doing
Even though we know it isn’t true
Similar Songs Like Cool About It
For those drawn to the raw and sincere moments in “Cool About It,” these other Boygenius songs bring similar emotions in their own way.
- Emily I’m Sorry: This song opens quietly, sharing honest feelings of apology and self-doubt. It highlighted the ache of wishing things were different.
- True Blue: Warm and caring, this song is about being truly seen and loved for who you are. It celebrates real connection and acceptance.
- Not Strong Enough: With upbeat sounds and deep words, this song talks about feeling weak inside, even when everything looks okay from the outside.
Similar Bands Like Boygenius
If you enjoy the heartfelt lyrics and soft harmonies of boygenius, there are several other bands that carry a similar emotional depth, indie charm, and strong songwriting.
- Big Thief
Genre: Indie Rock, Folk Rock
Top Albums: Capacity (2017), U.F.O.F. (2019), Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You (2022) - First Aid Kit
Genre: Indie Folk, Americana
Top Albums: The Lion’s Roar (2012), Stay Gold (2014), Palomino (2022) - Haim
Genre: Pop Rock, Soft Rock
Top Albums: Days Are Gone (2013), Something to Tell You (2017), Women in Music Pt. III (2020) - Lucius
Genre: Indie Pop, Indie Rock
Top Albums: Wildewoman (2013), Good Grief (2016), Second Nature (2022) - Daughter
Genre: Indie Folk, Ambient Rock
Top Albums: If You Leave (2013), Not to Disappear (2016), Stereo Mind Game (2023)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Music is Cool About It?
It blends soft indie rock and folk sounds, with acoustic guitar, gentle vocals, and emotional lyrics.
Are there Live Performances of Cool About It?
Yes, boygenius has performed it live during their shows, often with soft lighting and emotional delivery that matches the tone of the song.
Is Cool About It a Breakup Song?
The song can be interpreted as a quiet breakup song, focusing on emotional restraint and subtle sadness rather than dramatic expressions of heartbreak.
