Embracing the Darkness: Inside Banks’ Empowering Anthem "The Devil"

Embracing the Darkness: Inside Banks’ Empowering Anthem "The Devil"

When alt-pop mastermind Banks dropped her track "The Devil" on June 16, 2021, it wasn't just a new song—it was a declaration of total independence. Serving as the fiery lead single from her fourth studio album, Serpentina (2022), the track marked her very first release as an independent artist after parting ways with her major record label.

If you have ever had to tap into your fiercest alter-ego just to survive a tough situation, this song is your ultimate soundtrack. Here is the story behind the music, the message, and the mesmerizing visuals of "The Devil."

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🔥 The Theme: Reclaiming Power and Becoming the Villain

Following her 2019 album III, Banks went through a period of intense personal transformation, fueled by a traumatic breakup and serious mind-and-body wake-up calls. "The Devil" represents the exact moment she decided to take back control of her life.

Instead of viewing the devil as a purely evil figure, Banks flipped the script, using the title as a symbol of absolute strength and self-empowerment.

"In order to overcome those demons, you have to be stronger than a demon," Banks explained. "What's stronger than a demon? A devil. I couldn't be some kind, sweet, polite person to get over the certain things that I needed to get over. You have to be a devil."

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🎵 The Sound: Slinky, Dark, and Hypnotic

Musically, "The Devil" delivers exactly what fans love most about Banks, but with a sharper, more liberated edge.

• The Vibe: The track is anchored by a heavy, menacing, low-register bass line that immediately sets a dark, moody tone.
• The Lyrics: Opening with the haunting line, "Someone write my new name down," the song leans heavily into themes of personal metamorphosis.
• The Energy: It’s all about finding power by embracing your inner darkness. As Banks confidently sings, "Pullin' back all the opinions / I ain't really bothered and it tastes so good," she effectively cleanses her palate for a brand-new musical chapter.

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🎬 The Music Video: 90s Cinematic Horror-Comedy Energy

To bring this surreal track to life, Banks teamed up with director Jenna Marsh to co-direct a highly stylized music video. Film buffs will instantly recognize the heavy visual inspiration drawn from two classic 1992 movies: Bram Stoker's Dracula and the dark comedy Death Becomes Her.

The video serves as a playground for Banks' inner devil. In this twisted, surreal world, she hypnotizes and traps her personal demons while dancing and flying alongside her "devil sisters." It's playful, fashionable, and completely bulletproof—a visual representation of a space where no demon can touch her.