Reckless destruction tends to make us nervous, and rightly so. We don’t love it. But destruction can be sacred, and a necessary step towards creation—think of Shiva in Hinduism, or Dionysian rituals to release new life and energy. Even the Christian crucifixion and resurrection. Sometimes we must shake off old identities and stale emotions, however terrifying it can be. This song is about burning down the old to make space for the new, screamed at full volume over pounding synths. This isn’t chaos for chaos’ sake—it’s destruction as a purifying force, with no regrets, just wild, giddy release.

Icona Pop (feat. Charli XCX), “I Love It,” written by Patrik Berger, Charli XCX & Style Of Eye, 2012.

This post is part of Music 100, a love letter to songs. 100 words on 100 songs in 100 days, running from Groundhog Day to early June, 2025.

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