“Take a Hint,” the infectiously catchy song from the Nickelodeon show Victorious, first appeared in the season three episode “How Trina Got In.” While the song’s storyline revolves around Jade West’s frustration with a persistent, unwanted admirer, the episode as a whole explores the themes of fame, persistence, and the consequences of ambition, all wrapped within the comedic and theatrical setting of Hollywood Arts.
The Genesis of “Take a Hint” Within “How Trina Got In”
“How Trina Got In” sets the stage for “Take a Hint” by establishing the character of Dale Squires, a boy who is relentlessly pursuing Jade West despite her explicit lack of interest. The episode’s primary plot focuses on Trina Vega’s questionable acceptance into Hollywood Arts, sparking a debate about nepotism and talent within the school’s competitive environment. Dale’s constant attempts to woo Jade, which she finds increasingly irritating, serve as a comedic subplot that perfectly complements the main narrative.
Jade’s increasing frustration with Dale’s unwanted attention culminates in her performing “Take a Hint” with Tori Vega. The song is a direct and unambiguous message to Dale, conveying Jade’s disinterest in a creative and musically entertaining way. The performance is a pivotal moment, showcasing Jade’s rebellious spirit and musical talent, while also highlighting the absurdity of Dale’s persistence. The song’s popularity extends far beyond the episode, becoming a viral hit and a fan favorite.
Understanding the Subtext: Beyond the Surface
While the episode primarily focuses on Trina’s situation, Dale’s unwavering pursuit of Jade serves as a subtle commentary on consent and unwanted attention. Although presented comedically, the underlying message is clear: respecting boundaries and understanding when someone is not interested is crucial. The song, therefore, becomes a powerful, albeit entertaining, declaration of personal space and autonomy.
The episode also offers insight into Jade’s character. While often portrayed as cynical and sarcastic, “Take a Hint” reveals her vulnerability and her desire to be respected. She handles the situation with a combination of annoyance and humor, showcasing her resourcefulness and refusal to be passively bothered by Dale’s advances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “Take a Hint” and “How Trina Got In”
H2: Your Burning Questions Answered
Q1: Who wrote “Take a Hint”?
“Take a Hint” was written by Michael Corcoran and Dan Schneider. Michael Corcoran was a frequent contributor to the music of Victorious and other Nickelodeon shows.
Q2: Who sings “Take a Hint” in the episode?
The song is sung by Elizabeth Gillies (Jade West) and Victoria Justice (Tori Vega). Their vocal chemistry and contrasting personalities add to the song’s appeal.
Q3: What is the significance of Tori Vega singing “Take a Hint” with Jade?
Tori’s participation highlights her supportive nature and her willingness to stand by her friends. It also creates a dynamic contrast between their personalities, making the song more engaging and memorable. Their partnership strengthens the message of female solidarity in the face of unwanted attention.
Q4: Is “How Trina Got In” a popular episode of Victorious?
While not necessarily considered the most popular, “How Trina Got In” is a well-regarded episode due to the memorable song “Take a Hint” and the engaging storyline surrounding Trina’s acceptance into Hollywood Arts.
Q5: What other episodes feature the song “Take a Hint”?
“Take a Hint” is primarily featured in “How Trina Got In.” It may have appeared in other episodes as background music or in montage sequences, but its main showcase is within this episode.
Q6: What are the lyrics to the chorus of “Take a Hint”?
The chorus of “Take a Hint” is: “Why am I always hit on by the boys I never like? / You can be ugly, you can cry, as long as you can pay my price. / Money, money, money, money. / Money, money, money. / Take a hint, take a hint.”
Q7: What is the overall theme of “How Trina Got In”?
The episode explores themes of talent, nepotism, and the pressures of the entertainment industry. It also touches upon the importance of respecting boundaries and understanding nonverbal cues.
Q8: What happened to Dale Squires after “How Trina Got In”?
Dale Squires does not have any major recurring appearances in subsequent episodes of Victorious. His role was primarily to serve as a catalyst for “Take a Hint” and to highlight Jade’s character traits.
Q9: What musical instruments are used in “Take a Hint”?
The song features a blend of rock and pop elements, incorporating instruments like electric guitars, drums, and synthesizers. The arrangement is catchy and upbeat, contributing to its popularity.
Q10: What is the message behind the “money” line in the song?
The “money” line is intended to be satirical and exaggerated, reflecting Jade’s cynical humor. It highlights the superficiality and materialistic tendencies that can sometimes be found in the entertainment industry.
Q11: Where can I watch “How Trina Got In” and listen to “Take a Hint”?
The episode “How Trina Got In” and the song “Take a Hint” are available on various streaming platforms that offer Victorious, such as Paramount+. You can also find the song on popular music streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music.
Q12: Is there a full version of “Take a Hint” or just the version performed in the episode?
The version of “Take a Hint” performed in “How Trina Got In” is the full and official version of the song. There are no other officially released extended versions. Fan-made remixes and covers exist, but the episode version remains the definitive one.
The Lasting Impact of “Take a Hint”
The song “Take a Hint” has had a lasting impact, becoming a defining moment for both Jade West and the series Victorious. Its catchy melody, humorous lyrics, and empowering message have resonated with audiences of all ages. The song’s popularity continues to this day, demonstrating its enduring appeal and the enduring legacy of Victorious. The episode “How Trina Got In,” while not solely defined by the song, benefits immensely from its inclusion, solidifying its place in the show’s history. The perfect blend of humor, relatable characters, and unforgettable music ensures that “Take a Hint” will continue to be enjoyed for years to come.