When most people think of the best Post Malone song, some might immediately think of “Sunflower.” Understandably, the hit track from Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, which he performed together with Swae Lee, was not a massive global success for nothing. It is a smooth, melodic track, recognizable for its mellow and catchy instrumental hook. Others might also mention “Rockstar,” “Psycho,” or “Congratulations.” However, none of these tracks fully capture Malone’s artistic peak. That distinction belongs to “Circles.” Beyond its commercial success, “Circles” reveals a depth of emotion that truly sets it apart. Unlike the lighthearted vibe of “Sunflower,” the song conveys a poignant sense of melancholy that feels both intimate and universally relatable.
Released as the third single from Malone’s third studio album, Hollywood’s Bleeding, “Circles” marked the American singer’s fourth number-one hit. For fans, the alternative and soft rock single was hardly a surprise, opening with an acoustic guitar — a sound many associate with Malone. However, for casual listeners, it came as a revelation, as the track’s melodic style and rock influences made it feel like a completely different record from a different artist, especially compared to the rapper’s earlier hip-hop-focused releases. It makes total sense that some might find it surprising. But fans knew that Malone (or Posty, as some affectionately call him) has always had a guitar by his side. The release of “Circles” delivered exactly what fans had been expecting from him.
“Circles” Marks a Departure From Post Malone’s Earlier Trap & Hip-Hop Sound
Calling “Circles” his best track doesn’t necessarily mean his trap and hip-hop records weren’t at all good. In fact, tracks from Stoney and Beerbongs & Bentleys represent some of his best work. But there really is no denying that Hollywood’s Bleeding was a complete 180, particularly “Circles,” which is a noticeable shift, propelling Malone into a more alternative rock (or indie-pop even) territory. By the first verse of the song, it’s clear that the song would be devoid of any rap influences — a shift that paid off, as the song wasn’t only the 2020s most played song on adult contemporary radio, but was also the 2020s second best-selling one. It was even nominated at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards for the Record of the Year and Song of the Year categories (with the album itself receiving an Album of the Year nod), proving that Malone’s genre-crossing versatility could achieve both commercial success and critical acclaim.
Perhaps what’s fascinating about “Circles” is that we really couldn’t pinpoint which genre it actually belongs to. It is an alternative rock record, but it wasn’t alternative enough to alienate mainstream listeners. It wasn’t full-on pop either, as it retained enough of Malone’s signature melodic and rhythmic style to stand out from typical radio hits. But what sets it apart from the rest is the whole vibe that it’s giving, the same vibe that “Sunflower” also delivers, but not quite as much as “Circles.” The song was almost nostalgic enough, even chill, and one you would actually play to relax or unwind to.
With “Circles,” Malone sounds like he belongs in the realm of Tame Impala, Arctic Monkeys, or The National rather than Quavo, 2 Chainz, and other rap artists he previously collaborated with. He is a polarizing artist for some, and his departure from hip-hop may not have sat well with others, especially given his statement, “If you’re looking for lyrics… don’t listen to hip-hop.” But one thing we can’t discredit him for is his penchant for making good music, and “Circles” is a perfect example. Sonically, the track was a feel-good anthem with its breezy guitar riffs and catchy rhythm, but its happy melody lies a somber undertone. And that’s reflected in the lyrics.
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The Meaning Behind Post Malone’s “Circles”
“Circles” explores a relationship trapped in a loop of breakups and reconciliations, where both partners know it’s falling apart but can’t move on. The title makes perfect sense — they’re just running in circles. The relationship isn’t going anywhere; it’s a train wreck waiting to happen, inevitably bound for failure. Yet the worst part is that neither of them dares to walk away. The chorus goes: “Seasons change and our love went cold / Feed the flame ’cause we can’t let go / Run away, but we’re running in circles.” And neither of them wants to take the blame, each unwilling to be the one responsible for the relationship’s downfall. Malone sings, “I dare you to do something / I’m waiting on you again / So I don’t take the blame.”
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