Steve Lacy’s “Helmet” Is the Breakup Anthem Your Spring Reset Needs

Written By: Mariah Jolie

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Photo By: Kevin Amato

Nothing says “fresh start” better than an I’m-totally-over you break-up anthem. Helmet by our favorite Gemini Steve Lacy takes us on a whirlwind of emotions, emphasizing the importance of putting yourself first and saying fuck that nostalgia. This track celebrates the relief that comes with letting go of an ex, making it the perfect addition to your spring playlist. After a freezing, homebody-filled and static winter, it’s time to let go of those situationships, bad friends and unsupportive relatives. Allow yourself to be free of that seasonal depression grrrl! 

One of the most striking lyrics in the song is: “All that I could be is me and all me, time to get out, no I don’t want you around.” This line embodies the feeling of closing a chapter and stepping into something new. And isn’t that what spring is all about? Fresh starts, new moments. Think of all the exciting things that happen this season—graduations, Easter, Eid. It’s the perfect time to climb out of whatever hole you were in and create new memories without the people who did you dirty. 

Another lyric that scratches the brain in the best way: “You just gotta let me go as I’m trying to let go of you.” And those Oooo’s? They hit so perfectly—like, so perfectly—that if you asked Steve Lacy to say hi to your mom, he’d probably respond with “Can you be quiet? Ooo.” 

This line is the first hint that Lacy isn’t completely over his ex—he’s still trying to turn that page. And that’s okay. As we step into spring, it’s natural to still be closing some doors. But as Lacy later declares, “Don’t come back around me, no never,” he fully embraces his fresh start. 

This song is the perfect representation of seasonal depression, and how once you're out of it, spring is the perfect opportunity to slay those demons.

But Helmet isn’t just lyrically genius- the chords themselves evoke the song’s themes and can even affect mood. It opens C major 7, a dream, open and lush chord often associated with warmth, nostalgia and hope. Then, the unexpected jump to A major creates an uplifting shift, almost like a door opening to new possibilities. As the song unfolds and the realization of cutting off an ex sinks in, we hit d9, a chord with a dominant jazz quality that adds depth and tension because moving on is bittersweet. But, the song overall, creates an upbeat groove perfect for those windows-down drives and clear skies. So, if you’re ready to shake off the past and step into something new, let Helmet be your soundtrack to fresh starts and freedom.