Leanna Firestone, the indie pop singer-songwriter known for her vulnerable and brutally honest lyrics, has captivated audiences with her introspective music. From writing One Direction fan fiction as a child to touring the country with her original songs, Firestone has carved a unique space in the music world, connecting with listeners through her raw and relatable experiences. Her song "Diet Coke" stands out as a particularly poignant exploration of body image, self-worth, and the pressures of societal beauty standards.
A Glimpse into Leanna Firestone's Journey
Firestone's artistic journey began with a love for both writing and singing. Encouraged by her mother to develop her writing skills, she attended writing camps and honed her craft. Her passion for music ignited while listening to Taylor Swift's "Our Song," inspiring her to create music that would resonate with others on a similar emotional level.
She gained experience performing at theater camps and eventually began writing her own songs in middle school. Despite initial setbacks, such as finishing second in her eighth-grade talent show to an "I See Fire" cover, Firestone persevered, driven by a desire to share her music with the world.
Her debut single, "Strawberry Mentos," went viral in 2020, propelling her into the spotlight. Since then, she has released several EPs and singles, building a loyal fanbase drawn to her deeply personal lyrics and captivating stage presence.
"Diet Coke": A Deep Dive into Body Image Struggles
"Diet Coke" delves into the singer's struggles with body image and self-worth. The lyrics reveal a vulnerable narrative of someone who turned to drinking Diet Coke, believing that being thin would make them more attractive and desirable. The song opens with the lines:
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Aspartame isn't the same as real sugar
Drinking Diet Coke never made me sweeter at all
Just smaller than I was before
Thought that if I were less of myself maybe he would want me more
These lines immediately establish the central theme of the song: the pursuit of external validation through physical appearance. The singer equates "being small" with being loved, highlighting the damaging societal pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.
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The Fear of Health Risks and Societal Pressure
As the song progresses, the singer grapples with the potential health risks associated with artificial sweeteners like aspartame. This fear is expressed in the lines:
But then the other day, I was on the internet
I read that aspartame is a carcinogen
Am I at higher risk of cancer than all of my friends?
This realization adds another layer of complexity to the singer's struggle. She questions whether the pursuit of thinness is worth risking her health, revealing the internal conflict between wanting to be accepted and wanting to be healthy.
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The lyrics also touch upon the lengths people go to in order to achieve an "ideal" body, such as changing their diet and hobbies. The singer reflects on this, singing:
Changed my body and my hobbies, switched from regular to diet
Used to wonder if being skinny
Would be worth it if I could die from it
This verse underscores the extreme measures people take to conform to societal expectations, even to the point of sacrificing their well-being.
The Realization of Self-Worth
Despite the initial focus on external validation, the singer eventually comes to the realization that her worth is not based on her physical appearance. This shift in perspective is evident in the lines:
But then I found out that being loved
And being small feel synonymous
So I don't know, if I could do it all again
Would I still drink Diet Coke?
This verse marks a turning point in the song. The singer begins to question the validity of equating love with being small, suggesting a growing awareness of her own self-worth.
Addressing Body Image Issues and Stretch Marks
The final verse of "Diet Coke" addresses the issue of stretch marks, a common consequence of rapid weight loss or gain. The singer expresses shame and embarrassment about these marks, highlighting the societal stigma surrounding them:
Every t-shirt that own is two sizes too big
Don't want anyone to know I have a body
But even if I started wearing clothes that actually fit
My skin is still so tight I can't breathe comfortably
And so it stretches, so thin it breaks
And that leaves little lines that are both angry and sad
And I am embarrassed and ashamed
Of the red and purple stretch marks that litter my entire lower half
This verse reveals the singer's vulnerability and her struggle to accept her body as it is. She attempts to hide her body and make herself appear smaller, hoping that someone will find her attractive despite her perceived flaws.
The Power of Vulnerability and Connection
"Diet Coke" resonates with listeners because it tackles universal themes of body image, self-worth, and the pressure to conform to societal beauty standards. Firestone's willingness to be vulnerable and honest in her lyrics creates a powerful connection with her audience, allowing them to feel seen and understood.
The song's impact is further amplified by Firestone's captivating live performances. During her "Becoming Unbecoming" tour, she created a warm and welcoming atmosphere where fans could connect with her music on a deeper level. Her concerts are often described as emotional and cathartic experiences, with audience members singing along to her heartfelt lyrics and sharing in her vulnerability.
Leanna Firestone's Continued Growth and Evolution
Leanna Firestone continues to evolve as an artist, pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories. Her recent singles, such as "Black Box Warning" and "Becoming Unbecoming," showcase her growth as a songwriter and her willingness to delve into complex emotional themes.
Firestone's music offers a refreshing perspective on the challenges of navigating modern life, and her commitment to authenticity and vulnerability makes her a compelling voice for a new generation of listeners.