He may be best known for his role as an expert martial artist and wielder of the Ten Rings in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but Simu Liu‘s new song, “Don’t” shows a softer, more emotional side to him.
On Friday, Liu released his first single “Don’t.” On Instagram, he wrote, “this song was written for all of the hard times in my life where i have questioned my worth and felt like an imposter. it is for every single person who ever has felt alone, different, heartbroken or hopeless. you are worthy. you belong. you MATTER.”
In a time when mental health is increasingly becoming more of a priority, Liu admitting his struggles with his own worth is validating for everyone who has felt or does feel similarly. It acts as a reminder that you are not alone — we are not alone.
The words Liu wrote in his Instagram caption are more than just an accompanying statement for his first solo song, though. Listen to the song, pay close attention to the lyrics, and you’ll easily understand what Liu hopes to accomplish with it.
Upon a first listen that happened during the prime crying time of late night, I was taken aback by the emotional honesty of it — tissues are recommended for the tears you may shed. It’s the kind of song that would’ve spoken to me deeply when my imposter syndrome was at its worst years ago, and it’s the kind of song that speaks to me now as someone who still questions their value and worth.
The lyrics aren’t overly complex or try to be some form of elevated prose. Take the beginning of the chorus for example: “Don’t give up when you’re halfway down the road. There’s so much more inside you than you know.” They’re simple and straightforward with an easy-to-grasp metaphor. Sometimes, that’s the best way to reach a person. It’s more than enough to be effective and spread an uplifting message of hope to those who may need it.
While “Don’t” may be his first single, this isn’t Liu’s first foray into music.
On the soundtrack for Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Liu has a song with 88rising called “Hot Soup.” According to Genius, the song “recounts the familiar and heartfelt memories of parents and grandparents at home.” In his memoir, Liu also detailed a time in his youth when he formed a boy band called “LX4.”
On another lighthearted note, John Cena, who’s in Barbie with Liu as well as in the upcoming Grand Death Lotto, took to Twitter to show support for Liu’s music endeavor:
In response, Liu offered a sincere yet amusing message: “I may not be able to see him but damn, @JohnCena sees me🥺”
Expect more music to come soon from Liu, who also noted on Instagram that a full record is in the works. “i had the experience of a lifetime working on this record with @88rising. our journey together is just beginning. more to come soon!”
