Meaning of "I Like That" by Janelle Monáe

"I Like That" is a self-affirming anthem that encourages self-acceptance and celebrates individuality. The lyrics touch upon themes of self-esteem, identity, and empowerment. Janelle Monáe opens the song by acknowledging her multi-faceted nature, sometimes mysterious and free, and other times a walking contradiction of fact and fiction. She embraces her quirks and acknowledges her unconventional, rough-around-the-edges demeanor, which she balances with her smoothness. By positioning herself as "left of center," she emphasizes her uniqueness and asserts that she doesn't have to conform to societal norms.

The chorus emphasizes the artist's defiance of societal expectations and her refusal to conform. She proudly declares that she doesn't care if she's the only one who likes what she likes. She rejects the pressure to follow the crowd and emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself. The repetition of "Oh me, oh my" reinforces her self-assurance and reinforces the idea that her self-worth isn't dependent on others' opinions.

The lyrics take a personal turn, with Janelle Monáe reflecting on past experiences. She recalls moments when she was teased for being different, such as when she couldn't afford trendy clothing and had to wear thrift store clothes. Despite the ridicule, she always knew her worth and believed in her own greatness. This reflects her resilience and demonstrates that she has always embraced her uniqueness, regardless of others' opinions.

Overall, "I Like That" is a powerful anthem that encourages listeners to embrace their individuality, reject societal norms, and celebrate their own greatness. Through personal anecdotes and empowering lyrics, Janelle Monáe highlights the importance of self-acceptance and the beauty of being true to oneself.