22-year-old independent New York artist Dani Stocksdale has crafted a poignant and relatable anthem with her latest release, Swimming Pools, and it’s one that resonates with the digital generation’s struggle to find love. Stocksdale’s Swimming Pools is not about a leisurely dip on a hot summer day. It’s a metaphorical exploration of relationships, a subject that feels as vast and intimidating as the deep end of a pool. The song’s lyrics are a candid reflection of Stocksdale’s own experiences, painting a vivid picture of the Gen Z dating scene.
The song opens with a therapeutic suggestion to go to a bar alone, a real-life prescription from Stocksdale’s therapist, Jennifer. What follows is a cringe-worthy encounter with “thirty-something Ben,” a crypto-enthusiast who fails to take a hint. It’s a scene that’s painfully relatable, capturing the awkwardness of modern dating with a touch of humour.
The chorus is where Stocksdale’s wordplay shines. “Swimming pools I dip my toes in / I get cold and / Maybe I’ll come back another day” – it’s a clever metaphor for the hesitation and fear that often accompany new relationships. The imagery is striking, and the repetition of “another day” emphasises a reluctance to fully commit.
Perhaps the most intriguing line in the song is the comparison of finding love to “watching water boil through the window.” It’s a frustrating and futile exercise, much like trying to force love to happen.
Swimming Pools is a song that speaks to a generation navigating the complex waters of digital dating. It’s a refreshing take on a timeless subject, filled with raw emotion, clever wordplay, and a catchy lo-fi pop melody.
Stocksdale’s voice is authentic, and her storytelling is engaging. Whether you’re happily coupled or still searching for that special someone, Swimming Pools is a song that will resonate with anyone who’s ever dipped their toes into the unpredictable world of love.