Next week, Lana Del Rey is set to drop her ninth studio album, Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd, and in anticipation of the release, the singer-songwriter has shared the LP’s third single and opening track, “The Grants.” The song follows the Jack Antonoff-produced “A&W,” which soared to the top of the Genius charts last month.
“The Grants,” which takes its title from Lana Del Rey’s real family name, was produced by Lana, Drew Erickson and Mike Hermosa, the latter of whom co-wrote the track with Lana. It also features backing vocals from Melodye Perry, Pattie Howard, and Shikena Jones. Lyrically, the track examines the power of memory and the permanent mark those you love leave on your world.
On the first verse, Lana seemingly wonders if someone special in her life will stick around long enough to be considered family.
So you say there’s a chance for us?
Should I do a dance for once?
You’re a family man, but
But
On the pre-chorus, she questions whether he’s considering their future as well and wonders whether their love will be the kind you never forget—even in death.
Do you think about Heaven? Oh-oh
Do you think about me?
My pastor told me
“When you leave, all you take
Uh-huh, is your memories”
On the chorus, she vows to keep alive her memory of those she loves.
And I’m gonna take mine of you with me
I’m gonna take mine of you with me
Life is full of ups and downs, but on the second verse, Lana underscores the importance of pushing through the good and the bad to honor those who are no longer with her and keep her family’s legacy alive.
Doin’ the hard stuff, I’m doin’ my time
I’m doin’ it for us, for our family line
On the bridge, Lana shouts out some of the family members whose memory will stay with her through it all, including her niece Phoenix-Pickens Grant, the daughter of her sister Chuck.
My sister’s first-born child
I’m gonna take that too with me
My grandmother’s last smile
I’m gonna take that too with me
Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd is set to arrive on March 24. You can read all the lyrics to “The Grants” on Genius now.
