by Tommy Richman · 2024
The song “ACTIN UP” by Tommy Richman is about the emotional turmoil and frustration in a relationship, where the narrator struggles with misunderstandings, unfulfilled expectations, and the desire to maintain authenticity while dealing with a partner’s erratic behavior.
This song has been Shazamed over 312,216 times. As of this writing, ACTIN UP is ranked 62
ACTIN UP’ by Tommy Richman is a song that explores themes of heartache, betrayal, and the quest for solace in the small hours of the night. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this song resonate with so many. 
The atmosphere of “ACTIN UP” is steeped in an emotional struggle, where the listener is drawn into a world of turbulent relationships and self-discovery. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of longing and defiance, creating a mood that is both introspective and rebellious.
In the chorus, Richman captures the core sentiment of feeling misunderstood and betrayed, yet defiantly unyielding. We find ourselves navigating through lines that echo the frustration of seeing someone “actin’ up,” conveying the rawness of emotions as they clash with reality. The complexity here, as Richman intertwines self-preservation with vulnerability, is palpable—he’s caught between wanting to hold on and needing to let go.
Throughout the verses, Richman delves deeper into his narrative, questioning loyalty and confronting the pain of falsehoods. Lines like “I never knew why, oh, why’d you go away, baby?” reveal an aching curiosity and a search for truth amidst chaos. The singer’s plea for understanding and the resolve to remain unchanged highlights the internal battle between love and independence, making us ponder the cost of holding on.
At its core, “ACTIN UP” unveils an artist grappling with the duality of love—its power to uplift and its potential to devastate. This song is a poignant exploration of human emotion, where the true intent lies in embracing one’s authentic self, even amidst heartbreak.
Writer(s) of ACTIN UP: Thomas Anatole Richman, Kavian Salehi, Jonah Ronson Roy
