The Return Of Paramore
By: Ciera Barnes
In July 2007 Paramore released “Misery Business.” The first single off their second album Riot! I was immediately hooked as was the rest of the world. Although in recent years the song has been deemed problematic. Even Williams herself has said it was taken out of a page of her diary. While on tour Williams took out the controversial lyric “Once a whore, you’re nothing more/ I’m sorry that will never change.” The lyric was deemed anti-feminist and misogynist. She acknowledges that she was in a different space at that time and has grown since then. Also, she was seventeen at the time the song was written. Eventually, Paramore stopped performing the song while on their After Laughter Tour. The following year Paramore announced their hiatus.
It was always made clear to the fans that the band was not breaking up. There were many different challenges within the band. The Farro brothers left the band in 2010. Zac Farro returned for the album “After Laughter.” Josh Farro made homophobic statements in 2020. Williams rightfully called him out and alluded to this being the reason he is no longer in the band. Paramore always had a diverse fan group. It is clear they value their fans and want them to feel safe. This hiatus allowed them to grow as individuals and rectify past mistakes. After all, they had been together since their pre-teens. This break exposed the cracks in the foundation while also allowing for healing.
As the leader and sole female member Willams bared the weight of the criticism. Even when it came from her own band members. Williams went on to release solo music in 2020. She released the critically acclaimed “Petals for Armour.” Followed by “Petals for Armour/Descansos” which also received critical acclaim. While listening to her solo projects I went back and listened to Paramore albums. The albums still hold up and the lyrics get to the core of what it means to be human. Falling in love, falling out of love, depression, anxiety and living in denial. Themes that everyone can relate to especially when the pandemic hit. It reminded me of why I love Paramore so much.
On September 28, 2022, after a five-year hiatus, Paramore dropped “This is Why.” The lead single of their upcoming studio album titled “This is Why.” The song is about the rollercoaster of emotions post-2020. How the world became chaotic, less empathetic, and crueler. Paramore has always been able to tap into the feelings of the youth and “This Is Why” is no different. Although I think the feelings of doom and hopelessness have transcended generations. Especially in the two years since the pandemic. The world feels like it's on fire. At least we have the new Paramore album to look forward to. While continuing to hope for brighter and happier days.
Update: At a performance on Sunday, October 2, 2022, Paramore performed Misery Business. Williams told the audience There is a reason to bring the song back into the setlist. Williams knows that the song is an important moment in the band’s career. She also performed the song at Coachella with Billie Ellish this year. She now looks at the song with positivity and fondness. While acknowledging that it’s something we can learn from.
