We initially hear the word placeholder in elementary mathematics. Outside of mathematics, this word takes on a very different meaning. Especially when it comes to dating. To be a placeholder in a relationship means to hold an emotional space until someone more desired or deemed to be ‘better’ can occupy it. To put it simply, you're the understudy for a lead actor. Not only is this manipulative, it’s also cruel because the placeholder’s feelings are never a consideration. Ben Provencial’s “Easy” depicts what a relationship feels like when you’re the placeholder.
“Easy” is an indie-pop single about not wanting to be a placeholder within a romantic relationship. The song opens with an upbeat melody that immediately catches any listener’s attention. As soon as Provencial lays down the first and second verse however, we can identify the lyrical dissonance. Despite the melody’s optimism, they’re expressing how they’re experiencing neglect and disregard from their partner. Only receiving affection and attention from the partner when it’s convenient. With this pattern becoming habitual, they’ve come to the realization that they’re a placeholder for their partner. The chorus builds on this realization; rather than lashing out at the partner, they’re quite understanding. They’re aware “that people change and grow in separate ways”, and they’re not going to hold this against them. All they ask for in return is to be let “down easy”, so they’re no longer the placeholder. This allows the placeholder the opportunity to heal and find someone that sees them as a partner, too. Unfortunately, the third verse reveals that the partner has been anything but easy – instead, the partner is “pushing [them] out”. Tying back to the tragic sentiment that the placeholder’s emotional state is never held in high regard.
Ben Provencial was born in Atlanta but is currently laying down roots in Los Angeles. Provencial’s identifiable falsetto and arrangement of infectious hook melodies leaves audiences wanting more. The indie-pop singer and songwriter released his debut single “NOT ALRIGHT” back in 2020 which saw incredible streaming success across multiple platforms. The artist has been able to keep his well-known presence alive in the musical sphere with follow-up singles “BETTER OFF” and “FORGET ABOUT ME”. Meanwhile, “Easy” is the first single to be released in 2023 from the indie-pop artist. If you’ve enjoyed listening to Ben Provencial as much as I have, show him some virtual love in the form of streams, likes, and follows.
Written by Giavanna Gradaille
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