The Lyrics and Meaning of 'pick up your feelings' (Jazmine Sullivan)

"Pick Up Your Feelings" is a song from Sullivan's third studio album, "Reality Show", that references the feeling of being heartbroken and needing to move on. The lyrics are written in the second person, as if Sullivan is speaking directly to the person who has hurt her.

Reportedly, the addressee, who is Jazmine's ex-boyfriend, had cheated on her. Despite being financially dependent on the vocalist, he had the nerve to be unfaithful. In the first verse, the singer tells him that "he's off the lease" and that it's time for him to leave. The song's title is its central message: it's time for the person who has hurt Sullivan to "pick up their feelings" and move on.

Interpretation Of The Lyrics

When a relationship falls apart, it can be difficult to move on. The person who has been hurt may feel angry, sad, and confused. "Pick Up Your Feelings" is a song about moving on after being hurt by someone else.

"When you the one who's double-dipping... how I caught you slippin' up"

The opening lines of the song reference the fact that Sullivan's ex-boyfriend had cheated on her. There's no missing the tone of anger and betrayal in Sullivan's voice as she tells him that he's 'off the lease' and needs to leave.

"Pick up your feelings... leave no pieces (oh, oh)"

Although she comes across as someone who cannot tolerate any bullshit, Sullivan also expresses having learned her lesson. "I ain't listenin'... I learned my lesson..." she sings. Regret is clearly etched into her voice as she looks back on the relationship.

The song is not just about Sullivan getting over her cheating ex, it's also a proclamation of self-worth. "But I had enough... I deserve so much more..." she sings. This is a woman who has been hurt but has refused to be broken by it. Instead, she's come out stronger and more determined than ever to find the love and respect she deserves. Sullivan's message is clear - if you're not ready to love someone the right way, then don't bother trying at all. She's done with being hurt and disappointed, and she's not going to settle for anything less than she deserves.

The Context -Success of the Track

This masterpiece was co-written with the help of Brittany “Chi” Coney, Audra Mae, and “Blue June” Andrews. The beat producer, "DZL" Holmes, gave the song an electric and fun sound. It was released in late 2020, and has no doubt on repeat for many people who can relate to its lyrics.

It has since topped Billboard's Adult R&B chart, making it the first #1 track on her tally. Previously, her highest-charting single was "Need U Bad," which peaked at number 2 in 2009. "Pick Up Your Feelings" also tied with Silk Sonic's "Leave the door open" on the Grammy Awards Best R&B Performance recently held in 2022.

Jazmine had also performed the track on BET during the Soul Train Music Awards in late November 2020. The track's success can be accredited to its relatable and catchy lyrics, as well as its electric and fun sound. It's a song that many people can relate to, and it's certain to get stuck in your head after just one listen.

Final Take Away

If you're going through a heartbreak or struggling to move on from a past relationship, "Pick Up Your Feelings" might as well be the perfect song for you. Jazmine Sullivan's catchy track will help you to remember your worth and remind you that you deserve so much more than what you've been settling for. It's a song about moving on, learning from your mistakes, and finding the strength to keep going.