Lana Del Rey, Hope is a Dangerous Thing for a Woman Like Me to Have – But I Have It | Track Review

Lana Del Rey delivers an expressive ballad with her first single of 2019, “Hope is a Dangerous Thing for a Woman Like Me to Have – But I Have It.”

“‘Cause hope is a dangerous thing for a woman like me to have / Hope is a dangers thing for a woman like me to have.”  Yep, the title of the record is just what you think it is –

“Hope is a Dangerous Thing for a Woman Like Me to Have – But I Have It.” Damn, that’s a long song title.  Yes, Grammy-nominated, alternative pop standout Lana Del Rey drops the rare song that features 16 words (!) in its title.  As ‘extra’ as the title may be, Del Rey definitely comes through on her latest single, including literary and cinematic references.

What makes “Hope is a Dangerous Thing…” a winner? First and foremost, look no further than the ever-expressive Lana Del Rey.  Vocally, she sounds as chilling and enigmatic as ever.  Her tone is absolutely stunning.  Among her best moments come at the end of the record, when she flaunts her falsetto.   Beyond Del Rey’s inspired vocal performance itself, there’s also the stripped, yet gorgeous nature of this five-and-a-half-minute ballad.  The production keeps things hella simple, comprised of piano accompaniment.  Even working with such a lengthy duration, it’s perfect fuel for the fire of Del Rey, who manages to keep things colorful with some profane lyrics, such as “I’ve been tearing up town in my fucking nightgown / Like a goddamn-near sociopath.” Wow.

Final Thoughts 

Perhaps you won’t remember all 16 words that make up the song title of “Hope is a Dangerous Thing for a Woman Like Me to Have – But I Have It.”  What you will remember, however, is the song itself, which is well-written, well-performed, and tastefully produced.  Lana del Rey does what she does best – delivers an expressive, moody ballad.

Lana Del Rey • Hope is a Dangerous Thing for a Woman Like Me to Have – But I Have It [Single] • Interscope • Release: 1.9.19 

Photo Credit: Interscope