Should've Been You

Imelda May's song "Should've Been You" delves deep into the emotional turmoil of a relationship where one partner feels neglected and unappreciated. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who has consistently given her all, only to be met with indifference and frustration from her partner. The repeated phrase "Should've been you" underscores her disappointment and the realization that her needs and desires have been overlooked.

The song's narrative is rich with emotional conflict. The protagonist expresses a sense of loneliness and abandonment, questioning who will take care of her if not her partner. This question is not just about physical care but also emotional support and validation. The line "I got a little of mine still, yeah, the bit you couldn't kill" suggests that despite the neglect, she retains a fragment of her self-worth and pride. This resilience is a testament to her strength, even in the face of emotional adversity.

Imelda May's powerful delivery adds another layer to the song's meaning. Her voice conveys a mix of anger, sadness, and longing, making the listener feel the depth of her pain. The song also touches on themes of self-realization and the painful acknowledgment that sometimes, the people we love the most are not capable of giving us what we need. The emotional climax of the song, where she declares, "I'm the best thing that you ever had," is a poignant reminder of her worth and the love she deserved but never received.