Window Seat (song)

Window Seat is a song by American R&B singer Erykah Badu, released in 2010 as the lead single from her fifth studio album, New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh). The song is a soulful and introspective ballad known for its minimalist instrumentation and Badu's raw, emotionally vulnerable vocals.

Thematically, "Window Seat" explores themes of self-reflection, vulnerability, and personal freedom. Badu has stated that the song is about letting go of insecurities and societal expectations, and embracing one's true self. The lyrics touch upon feelings of isolation, societal pressures, and the desire to break free from limitations. The titular "window seat" can be interpreted as a metaphor for a space of contemplation and observation, allowing the singer to reflect on her own life and the world around her.

The song's music video generated significant controversy. Filmed in Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas (the site of President John F. Kennedy's assassination), Badu walks down the street stripping naked as the song plays. At the end of the video, she is shot, seemingly symbolizing the dangers of nonconformity and societal judgment. The video was filmed guerrilla-style, without permits, and its provocative content led to public debate about artistic expression, public decency, and the legacy of the Kennedy assassination.