Meaning of “Backburner” by NIKI

“Backburner” is a pretty dope song, because the lyrics honestly encapsulate the kinds of complexities that go along with being a jilted lover. Reading in between the lines the addressee, i.e. Niki’s ex, proved to be unfaithful. It is possible that he may have even gone as far as to dump her.

But now, what’s being implied is that he’s going through his own romance-related ordeals. These challenges are so tough that he is actually being compelled to lean on Niki for emotional support.

Usually when we come across these types of songs, i.e. a female’s formerly-brazen lover having since been reduced to “a hurt puppy”, the vocalist proceeds to revel in the fact that karma has done its thing and proceeds to throw that idea in her ex’s face. 

But Niki, despite observing how pathetic her ex has become, more or less proceeds to sympathize with him. Or in the very least, in acknowledging that there’s still a place in her heart reserved for him, the singer doesn’t turn the addressee away as she feels is called for. 

So by the time all is said and done, Niki actually comes to feel more sorry for herself than her ex, even though he’s the one in his feelings. And that’s because amidst it all, she has come to the realization that even though he has relegated her to backburner status, i.e. a lover/friend he only calls for his own personal reasons, she’s willing to play that role in her life nonetheless.

“Maybe I’m just not bettеr than this, I haven’t tried
Maybe life’s less romantic when I don’t wanna die
You’d think I’d be a fast learner
But guess I won’t ever mind crisping up on your backburner”

Release of “Backburner”

This song represents the third track on “Nicole”. “Nicole” is the second studio album of NIKI. “Backburner” was released on August 12 of 2022 along with its album. On this album also appears NIKI’s popular song “Anaheim“.

Credits

The Indonesian artist is credited as the author and co-producer of “Backburner”. Ethan Gruska is the song’s other producer.