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Ryan Gosling, I’m Just Ken: the Lyrics & Their Meaning

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“I’m Just Ken,” written by Mark Ronson & Andrew Wyatt, is a song released on the 21st of July, 2023. It is the eighth song from Barbie The Album, from the Barbie movie. The meaning of “I’m Just Ken” lyrics by Ryan Gosling is Ken’s struggle for self-acceptance & recognition among stereotypes & unrequited love. In a powerful display of emotion and self-discovery, Ryan Gosling’s performance of “I’m Just Ken” in the soundtrack of the 2023 film Barbie has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. This sentimental “’80s power ballad” provides a window into the inner struggles and desires of Ken, the iconic companion of Barbie.

You can listen to Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” below.

Official Audio of “I’m Just Ken” by Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling, I’m Just Ken: the Lyrics & Their Meaning

The opening lines of “I’m Just Ken” set the stage for Ken’s vulnerability and frustration. Feeling perpetually overshadowed, Ken confesses that he often feels like he’s playing second fiddle. Despite putting in his best efforts, he remains unnoticed and unappreciated. These lyrics hint at the pain of unrequited love and the longing to be seen and cherished.

The chorus delves deeper into Ken’s emotional turmoil. He expresses a longing to be more than just “Ken,” to be acknowledged as a perfect “ten” in someone’s eyes. However, he grapples with societal expectations that define him based on superficial attributes like his looks or his role as Barbie’s companion. The poignant question arises – will he ever be more than just the supporting character in someone else’s story?

In the second verse, Ken understands what it means to experience love and be loved for his authentic self. He wonders if expressing his feelings is perceived as a weakness, questioning whether he can truly be himself without fear of judgment. These lines beautifully capture the internal struggle that many individuals face when trying to break free from societal norms and expectations.

The bridge of the song is a moment of empowerment for Ken, where he taps into his inner strength and “Ken-ergy.” It is a declaration that he is more than the stereotype he’s been cast in, and he refuses to be confined by others’ perceptions of him. This newfound energy embodies his determination to be recognized as his authentic self and fight for the love he deserves.

In the chorus, Ken’s feelings resurface, showing the difference between how he views himself and how others see him. He wishes that his crush would see him as more than just a friend and appreciate him as a worthy and lovable man. These lyrics explore themes of accepting oneself, challenging societal expectations, and yearning for authentic relationships.

The outro serves as a resolute declaration of self-worth and acceptance. Ken embraces himself, acknowledging that he is “enough” just as he is. He urges the world to take notice of his true qualities, no longer hiding behind a facade of perfection. This conclusion emphasizes the importance of self-love and the journey toward embracing one’s authentic self.

Ryan Gosling’s performance as Ken in Barbie: The Album is truly remarkable, bringing the character’s challenges and emotions to life. Gosling’s heartfelt and expressive delivery takes the song to another level, deeply connecting with the audience. Mark Ronson, who wrote the song, was amazed by Gosling’s portrayal, acknowledging that his emotional performance gave the lyrics greater significance, making the song even more captivating.

In a fascinating twist, “I’m Just Ken” also features remarkable musical collaborations. Slash, the iconic guitarist of Guns N’ Roses, lends his talents to the track, contributing his signature sound to the powerful ballad. Additionally, Wolfgang Van Halen and Josh Freese of Foo Fighters add their instrumental prowess to the mix, creating a musical masterpiece that perfectly complements Gosling’s exceptional vocal performance.

“I’m Just Ken” goes beyond being a regular movie soundtrack song; it’s an empowering anthem about finding and accepting oneself. Ryan Gosling’s emotional performance as Ken, along with the heartfelt lyrics by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, turn this song into an inspirational masterpiece.

What Are the Lyrics of “I’m Just Ken” by Ryan Gosling?

These are the lyrics of Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” via Genius:

I’m Just Ken Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Doesn’t seem to matter what I do
I’m always number two
No one knows how hard I tried, oh-oh, I
I have feelings that I can’t explain
Drivin’ me insane
All my life, been so polite
But I’ll sleep alone tonight

[Chorus]
‘Cause I’m just Ken
Anywhere else I’d be a ten
Is it my destiny to live and die a life of blonde fragility?
I’m just Ken
Where I see love, she sees a friend
What will it take for her to see the man behind the tan and fight for me?

[Verse 2]
I wanna know what it’s like to love
To be the real thing
Is it a crime? Am I not hot when I’m in my feelings?
And is my moment finally here or am I dreaming?
I’m no dreamer

[Bridge]
Can you feel the Ken-ergy?
Feels so real, my Ken-ergy
Can you feel the Ken-ergy?
Feels so real, my Ken-ergy

[Chorus]
I’m just Ken
Anywhere else I’d be a ten
Is it my destiny to live and die a life of blonde fragility?
I’m just Ken
Where I see love, she sees a friend
What will it take for her to see the man behind the tan and fight for me?

[Outro]
I’m just Ken (And I’m enough)
And I’m great at doing stuff
So, hey, check me out, yeah, I’m just Ken
My name’s Ken (And so am I)
Put that manly hand in mine
So, hey, world, check me out, yeah, I’m just Ken
Baby, I’m just Ken
(Nobody else, nobody else)

Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” Lyrics

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Laviasco is an entertainment website run by a single person, the Admin himself, Mr. Suraj Marahatta, from research to blogging to website maintenance. Here, I have been providing the meaning of the lyrics of the songs little by little since 2019. My goal is to provide authentic sources for the facts and stay up-to-date.

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