Do You Know What You Have?

Brandy's song "Do You Know What You Have?" delves into the emotional turmoil of feeling unappreciated in a relationship. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of frustration and longing for recognition from a partner who seems oblivious to the value of the love they are receiving. The song opens with a poignant observation that people often don't realize the worth of what they have until it's gone, setting the stage for a narrative of unreciprocated devotion and emotional neglect.

In the first verse, Brandy questions her partner's awareness and appreciation of her efforts and love. She describes a scenario where her partner seems surprised and perhaps even dismissive of her feelings, indicating a lack of understanding or acknowledgment of her emotional investment. The repetition of the word "what" in the verse underscores her confusion and frustration, as if she is trying to break through a wall of indifference.

The chorus, repeated multiple times, serves as a haunting reminder of the central question: "Do you know what you have here?" This refrain emphasizes the singer's desperation for her partner to recognize the depth of her love and commitment. The second verse further elaborates on her unwavering loyalty, describing herself as a "certified ride or die" who would go to great lengths, even taking a bullet, for her partner. Despite this, she feels compelled to ask if her love is good enough, highlighting her insecurity and the emotional toll of feeling undervalued.

The bridge offers a moment of resignation, where Brandy acknowledges that her partner is free to leave if they cannot appreciate what they have. She asks them to leave their keys on the table, symbolizing a finality and readiness to move on if necessary. The song closes with the repeated chorus, leaving listeners with a lingering sense of unresolved tension and a powerful message about the importance of recognizing and valuing love before it's too late.