Cheerleader Lyrics by Porter Robinson

[Verse 1]
There’s no doubt
I can tell you’re acting your heart out
And she’s addicted
Obsessed like, “I know I can fix him” (Oh)
She’s got hearts in her eyes
And she draws me kissing other guys
Her love, the type
Where she don’t know where to draw the line (Oh)

Explanation of Verse 1
The narrator observes their partner’s behavior, noting that they are acting passionately but also seem addicted to trying to fix them. Despite this, the partner is depicted as having hearts in their eyes, indicating a deep affection, but also a tendency to overlook the narrator’s flaws.

[Pre-Chorus]
Cheerleader
Thought she needed me, but I need her
(Oh, baby, you tell me, you’re singing)

Explanation of Pre-Chorus
The narrator reflects on the dynamic of their relationship, where their partner once thought they needed them, but now the narrator realizes they need their partner just as much.

[Chorus]
It’s not fair
‘Cause I knew you like the back of my hands
Well, don’t you care? I gave you everything, ah
Now I feel you even when you’re not there

Explanation of Chorus
The narrator expresses a sense of injustice, feeling like they knew their partner intimately but now feel neglected. Despite giving their all to the relationship, they still feel their partner’s presence even when they’re physically absent.

[Verse 2]
It’s kinda sad how
It’s not your fault you’re living in a madhouse
I can’t back down
Aren’t you tired of blending into the background? (Oh)
She’s got hearts in her eyes
Saying, “Boy, you better watch the time
‘Cause if you’re not mine
I’d rather see you burned alive,” oh

Explanation of Verse 2
The narrator acknowledges the chaotic nature of their partner’s life and their own inability to step away. Despite recognizing the dysfunction, they can’t help but be drawn back in. Their partner’s fixation on time and possession is noted, indicating a possessive and potentially harmful aspect of the relationship.

[Bridge]
Somehow, I don’t even know what she does now
Well, do I wish her the best or do I actually miss her?
She had hearts in her eyes
She was rooting for me all the time
Her love, the type
That makes you dedicate your life
Oh, my cheerleader
Thought she needed me, but I need her

Explanation of Bridge
The narrator questions their feelings towards their partner, wondering if they truly wish them well or if they still harbor feelings for them. Despite the turmoil, they recognize the dedication and support their partner once showed, likening them to a cheerleader who always rooted for them.

[Chorus]
It’s not fair
‘Cause I knew you like the back of my hands
Well, don’t you care? I gave you everything, ah
Now I feel you even when you’re not there
Yeah, I feel you even when you’re not there

Explanation of Chorus
The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the sense of unfairness and longing the narrator feels towards their partner. Despite the difficulties, they still feel connected to them, even in their absence.
OVERALL
Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of a relationship filled with passion, obsession, and conflict. Despite recognizing the flaws and challenges, the narrator struggles to let go, feeling a deep connection to their partner even amidst the turmoil.