Meaning of "California Lovers" by Tori Kelly

"California Lovers" is a reflection on a past relationship that was filled with the excitement and freedom of being young and in love. The song captures the nostalgia and longing for a time when everything felt possible and the world was at their feet. The lyrics depict moments of pure joy and adventure, such as dancing on the sand at a bonfire and sneaking out in the car to be together. The reference to Bob Marley and the Pacific Highway adds to the imagery of carefree, sun-kissed days in California. However, while the memories are vivid and powerful, the narrator acknowledges that the relationship ended in heartache. The line "even though it ended in heartache, sometimes I wanna go back" encapsulates the contradictory feelings of longing for a past love while simultaneously being aware of the pain it caused. Despite moving on, the memories continue to have an impact on the narrator, especially during the summertime when the heat and energy of their past relationship resurface. The lyrics convey a sense of acceptance and closure, as the narrator recognizes that while those memories still hold power, they no longer consume their thoughts. Overall, "California Lovers" captures the universal experience of looking back fondly on a past relationship, recognizing its significance, and cherishing the memories while moving forward.