Could've Been (feat. Bryson Tiller)

H.E.R.'s 'Could've Been' featuring Bryson Tiller is a poignant exploration of the emotional landscape that follows a failed relationship, where the potential of what might have been lingers like a ghost. The song delves into the introspective thoughts of two individuals who are coming to terms with the fact that their connection will remain in the realm of 'what if.' The lyrics are a conversation with oneself and the other, filled with questions and reflections on the choices made and the paths not taken.

The opening lines set the tone for a confessional, where the singer is seeking answers to the lingering feelings of a past relationship. The repeated phrase 'Somebody give me' underscores a sense of desperation for closure or understanding. As the song progresses, the lyrics oscillate between moments of clarity and longing, acknowledging that while the relationship is over, the emotional ties are hard to sever. The chorus, 'We could've been,' is a powerful refrain that encapsulates the heart of the song—the yearning for a different outcome and the bittersweet acceptance of reality.

Bryson Tiller's verse adds another layer to the narrative, presenting the perspective of someone who is also caught in the web of 'what could've been.' His lines question the point of hiding feelings and the futility of lying to oneself. The mention of 'if I wasn't with somebody' suggests a complexity to the situation, hinting at external factors that may have contributed to the relationship's end. The song's emotional depth is further amplified by the soulful delivery of both artists, making 'Could've Been' a resonant anthem for anyone who has ever pondered the possibilities of a love left unfulfilled.