On April 29, singer-songwriter Billie Eilish released yet another chart-topping song: “Power.” It is one of the many songs to be featured in her upcoming album “Happier Than Ever,” scheduled to be released on July 30. As Eilish  described in an interview, she feels “very vulnerable putting this one out because [she] holds it so close to [her] heart.” The song is a message to sexual predators who abuse the power that they have over young girls and take advantage of their standing, especially those in Hollywood. In light of the increase in violence against women, this song is especially impactful. The lyrics describe how predators will only care “if it kills their contract,” that “they didn’t know,” or that they “thought she was [their] age.” This song differs from Eilish’s others in that her usual musical flourishes were left out, leaving behind a raw and direct song that conveys the theme in a straightforward manner.

A few days later, Eilish posted her feature on the British Vogue cover where she wears all pink, more revealing clothes than she usually wears. This post became the fastest to reach one million likes on Instagram, reaching the number in about five minutes. In keeping with the theme of vulnerability, her appearance on the British Vogue cover reinforces her message of body positivity. Junior Sophia Maggio says, “[Eilish] is also trying to say that people should have the freedom to do whatever they want with their bodies,” and said that Eilish’s quote, “don’t not make me a role model just because you’re turned on by me,” resonated with her.

“Power” and the message behind both the song and her new appearance reinforce Eilish’s message of body positivity and the harsh reality of sexual harassment, especially by someone in a greater position of power. Her album, “Happier Than Ever” is one to look forward to, and we can only wait to see what comes next.

Works Cited:

• “Addressing the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Violence Against Women and Girls.” United Nations, United Nations, www.un.org/en/addressing-impact-covid-19-pandemic-violence-against-women-and-girls.