Demi Lovato Reflects on ’29’: Unpacking the Song’s Truth, Past Relationships, and Personal Growth Ahead of ‘HOLY FVCK’ Album
Pop superstar Demi Lovato has once again commanded global attention, not just with the impending release of her highly anticipated album, HOLY FVCK, but with a deeply personal and poignant track titled “29.” After teasing snippets of the song online, Lovato, who uses she/they pronouns, officially released the full version, sparking immediate discussion and introspection among fans and critics alike. The track, widely rumored to address her past relationship with actor Wilmer Valderrama, serves as a powerful testament to Demi’s journey of self-discovery, healing, and setting personal boundaries.
In a candid and revealing conversation with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1, Demi, at 29 years old at the time of the interview, delved into the inspiration behind “29” and the profound impact turning that age had on her perspective. “When I turned 29, I remember I was on vacation, and I just realized I’m 29 now, and it put things into perspective,” Demi shared with Lowe. She emphasized the transformative nature of this realization, explaining, “It put everything into perspective. And I’m very careful with the way that I answer these questions because I feel like the song says it all.” This carefully chosen phrasing underscores the sensitive nature of the topic while allowing the music to speak volumes about her truth.
The Revealing Lyrics of “29” and Public Speculation
The song’s initial preview on August 19 immediately ignited a flurry of speculation among listeners. The lyrics graphically depict a relationship between a 17-year-old and an older individual, described as “29” years old. This narrative quickly drew parallels to Demi’s highly publicized past romance with Wilmer Valderrama, the *That ’70s Show* alum, who was reportedly close to turning 30 when he first met a then-teenage Demi. The explicit nature of the lyrics left little room for misinterpretation, prompting many to conclude that “29” was indeed a direct commentary on this chapter of her life.
Demi affirmed the song’s deeply personal roots during her chat with Zane Lowe, stating, “I don’t have to say too much, to be honest, but turning 29 was a huge eye opener for me. And then, going into treatment and having realizations led to my transformation, my release of the emotion that was put into this song.” This statement highlights the integral role of self-reflection and therapeutic work in crafting such an impactful and emotionally charged piece of music. The track isn’t just a recounting of events; it’s a reflection of growth, understanding, and the reclamation of her own narrative.
The decision to release “29” was not made without considerable apprehension, as Demi confessed. “I would be lying if I said I didn’t have a ton of anxiety about putting out this song,” she admitted. Yet, despite the fear, she felt a compelling need to share her story: “I just said, ‘I have to go for this. I have to own my truth.’ Yeah. And I do still walk that line very finely. I’ve learned that sometimes saying less is more. And it’s taken me to 30 years old to maybe learn that, but here I am approaching the way that I express myself differently in front of the media because it’s okay to have boundaries.” This acknowledgment of anxiety, coupled with her resolve to speak her truth, underscores the bravery inherent in her artistic expression and her personal journey toward self-preservation and establishing healthy boundaries in her life and career.
“Petal on the Vine”: A Powerful Lyrical Examination
The lyrics of “29” are strikingly direct and emotionally raw, painting a vivid picture of the power dynamics Demi is now reflecting upon. The song opens with poignant lines: “Petal on the vine / Too young to drink wine / Just five years a bleeder / Student and a teacher / Far from innocent / What the f-ck’s consent? / Numbers told you not to / But that didn’t stop you.” These verses immediately set a tone of questioning and critical re-evaluation of past experiences, particularly focusing on the age difference and the perception of consent at such a young age.
As the song progresses, Demi’s perspective intensifies. In the second verse, she sings, “I see you’re quite the collector / Yeah you’re twelve years her elder / Maybe now it doesn’t matter / But I know f-cking better / Now I know f-cking better.” This powerful repetition of “Now I know f-cking better” serves as a defiant declaration of maturity, insight, and an evolved understanding of relational dynamics. It signifies a profound shift from passively accepting situations to actively recognizing and challenging potentially problematic elements of her past.
When sharing the song on her social media platforms, Demi concisely described its essence, stating that “29 is a record about the wisdom that comes with age. Out now.” This brief yet impactful description encapsulates the core message of the track: it’s not merely a recounting of a past relationship but a powerful reflection on personal growth, the wisdom gained through lived experience, and the courage to voice newly formed perspectives.
Revisiting Past Narratives: A Shifting Perspective
Demi’s current stance on her past relationship with Wilmer Valderrama starkly contrasts with earlier accounts. In a 2015 interview with *Complex*, Demi discussed their relationship, asserting that Wilmer had waited until she was legally an adult to pursue a romantic involvement. “We shot a PSA together for the 2010 Census forms for Voto Latino,” she recounted. “We shot them at his house, so we actually met there. Of course, I was like, ‘Oh my god. You’re so attractive.’ And he was like, ‘You are not 18. Get away from me.’ Then we became really good friends, and he was there for me through a number of situations and breakups and whatever. Then as I got older and we grew closer, it was like, ‘Hey, maybe we should try this thing out.'”
This narrative was echoed in her 2017 documentary, *Simply Complicated*, where she reiterated the story of their initial encounter and the development of their relationship. “I thought, ‘I have to have him,’ but I was only 17, and he was like, ‘Get away from me.’ When I turned 18, we started dating. I think it was love at first sight; we connected on a level that I’ve never connected with anybody before, he was just my rock, my everything.” These earlier statements, while portraying a seemingly consensual and loving relationship, now stand in stark relief against the self-aware and critical lens through which Demi views these events in “29.” The contrast highlights the evolving understanding of consent, power dynamics, and healthy relationships that can come with age and personal growth.
The Aftermath: Breakup and Evolved Relationships
Wilmer and Demi’s relationship concluded in 2016. Their breakup was announced in a joint statement, which conveyed a sense of mutual respect and a desire to maintain a friendship. “After almost 6 loving and wonderful years together, we have decided to end our engagement. This was an incredibly difficult decision for both of us, but we have realized more than anything that we are better as best friends and will always be supportive of one another.” This declaration suggested an amicable parting, leaving fans to believe that the two remained on good terms.
For a period, this seemed to hold true. Wilmer reportedly visited Demi two months after her near-fatal overdose in 2018, signaling a continued concern and bond. However, the dynamics of their connection evidently shifted over time. In 2020, following Wilmer’s engagement to Amanda Pacheco, Demi’s comments to *Harper’s Bazaar* revealed a more definitive separation. While she offered well wishes, stating she “wish[es] nothing but the best,” she also clarified, “we’re not in each other’s lives” and that they hadn’t “spoken in a long time.” This statement, made two years prior to “29,” already hinted at a greater distance and an intentional severance of ties, paving the way for the profound re-evaluation expressed in her latest musical offering.
Ultimately, “29” is more than just a song about a past relationship; it’s a powerful anthem of self-empowerment, a reflection on societal norms, and a public declaration of Demi Lovato’s journey toward healing and authentic self-expression. As fans anticipate the full release of *HOLY FVCK*, “29” stands as a poignant reminder of the artist’s enduring ability to transform personal pain into universal art, inspiring countless others to confront their own truths and embrace the wisdom that comes with age and experience.