“Shinigami Eyes” by Grimes
The Shinigami referenced in the title and chorus are characters related to Japanese folklore. Certain traditional beliefs from Japan, such as this one, are known to the modern world due to the popularity of Japanese culture, such as anime, with Japan probably being the most serious country as far as the creation of cartoons is concerned.
For instance, Bleach is a well-known anime franchise where Shinigami play a prominent role. And so it is with another of such series known as Death Note. Actually it was in fact Death Note, wherein “Shinigami eyes” are a plot device, that served as the inspiration behind this piece. And in enlightening the world to that fact, Grimes also warned us not to read too deeply into the lyrics.
But that said, this song does feature a distinct narrative. Most simply explained, it appears that the vocalist is speaking to her strong sexual appeal. Or viewed alternatively, the addressee, who is more or less identified as your typical ‘young man’, is obsessed with Grimes.
Or as explained, men at this age are such that they tend to make romantic decisions with the eyes rather than their hearts. So the insinuation is that these males find the vocalist, who is sexy and all, as being irresistible as a result.
Grimes, the Heartbreaker
Meanwhile, Grimes proceeds to present herself as a heartbreaker. So in a roundabout way, what she is actually saying is something like falling in love with someone based on their looks, and shall we say sexuality is an act of complete folly. But more to the point is that once a guy is under her spell, she can use him at will.
And as implied, she will in fact kill them with her “Shinigami eyes”. This is a term which may ultimately be an allusion to her strong physical attractiveness.
To reiterate, you can try to make more sense out of this than Grimes herself if you want. But ultimately this is sort of a love song – for lack of a better term – which is based on nonromantic, even death-related anime.
Facts about “Shinigami Eyes”
Columbia Records issued this track on 26 January 2022.
Grimes acted as a writer and producer of this track, as did Illangelo. The former went on to explain that this song was actually conceptualized by the latter, who is a fan of the aforementioned Death Note.
Grimes later went on to imply that it wasn’t her actual desire to drop this song, with its release rather being a decision that was made on the executive level.
The first teasing of this track, via Grimes, actually dates back to mid-2021.
Jennie of Blackpink fame (who is actually South Korean) is featured on the music video to “Shinigami Eyes”. The clip sports appearances by another singer named Dorian Electra and Ryon Wu, an anime-inspired Instagram star.
