Play Pretend

Alex Sampson's 'Play Pretend' is a heartfelt ballad that delves into the complexities of unspoken love and the emotional turmoil that comes with it. The song narrates the story of a young man who harbors deep feelings for a close friend. He describes her as 'someone special' and 'kinda perfect,' highlighting his admiration and affection. However, she is unaware of his true feelings and believes she has to settle for less, which he knows isn't true. This sets the stage for the emotional conflict that runs throughout the song.

The chorus reveals the protagonist's internal struggle. He wants his friend to be happy, but it's painful for him to watch her make choices that lead to her unhappiness. The line 'now I gotta play pretend' encapsulates his dilemma—he has to hide his true feelings and act as if everything is fine, even though it's tearing him apart inside. This act of 'playing pretend' is a metaphor for the emotional mask he wears to protect his friend and perhaps himself from the potential fallout of revealing his true feelings.

The song also touches on the deep bond between the two friends. They can talk until 'three in the morning,' and he knows her 'like the back of my hand.' These lines emphasize the intimacy and connection they share, making his unspoken love even more poignant. The repeated refrain of 'it's hard to watch you fall again' underscores his helplessness and the pain of seeing her unhappy while he remains in the shadows, unable to express his true emotions. Alex Sampson's soulful delivery and the song's poignant lyrics make 'Play Pretend' a touching exploration of love, friendship, and the heartache of unspoken feelings.