Say You Love Me

Patti Austin's 'Say You Love Me' is a heartfelt plea for reciprocated love, capturing the essence of unrequited affection and the hope for a deeper connection. The song's lyrics reveal a protagonist who desires to transition from friendship to a romantic relationship. The repeated lines, 'Don't you know that I want to be more than just your friend' and 'Holdin' hands is fine, but I've got better things on my mind,' emphasize the longing for a more intimate bond. This yearning is further highlighted by the insistence that things could 'really work out fine' if the other person would only express their love.

The song employs simple yet powerful metaphors to convey the protagonist's feelings. For instance, the comparison to being treated 'like I was lice' starkly contrasts the desired affection, underscoring the pain of feeling undervalued. The repetition of 'Say you love me' throughout the song serves as both a plea and a mantra, reflecting the protagonist's desperation and hope. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist believes that mutual love would lead to a harmonious and fulfilling relationship, as indicated by the lines 'I'll be yours and you'll be mine' and 'Things would really work out fine.'

Patti Austin's soulful delivery adds depth to the song's emotional landscape. Known for her versatile vocal style that spans jazz, R&B, and pop, Austin brings a rich, emotive quality to the lyrics. Her performance imbues the song with a sense of vulnerability and earnestness, making the listener empathize with the protagonist's plight. The song's structure, with its repetitive chorus and heartfelt verses, mirrors the cyclical nature of longing and the hope that love will eventually be reciprocated. 'Say You Love Me' is a timeless exploration of the complexities of love and the universal desire for connection.