Musically, "Riptide" is characterized by its upbeat, catchy melody and Joy's distinctive vocal style. The song features a simple, yet effective, acoustic guitar riff and a sing-along chorus that's hard to resist.
"Riptide" received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising Joy's songwriting skills and the song's infectious melody. The song's success helped establish Joy as a rising star in the music industry, and it remains one of his most popular and enduring songs to date.
The song's opening lines, "I was stuck in a rip tide / Of a hotel room and a one-way ticket", set the tone for the rest of the song, which explores themes of longing, heartache, and the struggle to move on from a toxic relationship.
The lyrics of "Riptide" describe a tumultuous relationship that's hard to escape. The song's title, "Riptide", refers to a powerful current that can quickly pull a person out to sea. Joy uses this metaphor to convey the overwhelming and often unpredictable nature of his emotions.
Overall, "Riptide" is a standout track that showcases Vance Joy's talent for crafting memorable, emotionally resonant songs that connect with listeners on a deep level.