A Little Respect

Kevin Johansen's rendition of 'A Little Respect' is a heartfelt plea for understanding and emotional reciprocity in a relationship. The song opens with the singer's quest to find something that will make him more endearing to his partner, highlighting his vulnerability and desire to avoid heartbreak. This sets the tone for the entire song, which revolves around the theme of unrequited love and the emotional labor involved in maintaining a relationship where one partner feels underappreciated.

The repeated lines, 'That you gimme no,' emphasize the frustration and confusion the singer feels as he works hard to gain his partner's affection and respect. This repetition serves as a powerful metaphor for the cyclical nature of unreciprocated efforts in a relationship. The plea for 'a little respect' is not just about romantic love but also about the fundamental human need for acknowledgment and validation from those we care about.

In the latter part of the song, the singer questions what could possibly justify such emotional neglect, pondering whether it is religion or reason that drives a person to forsake their lover. This introspective moment adds depth to the song, suggesting that the lack of respect and love is not just a personal issue but a broader existential dilemma. The closing lines, 'Soul, I hear you calling,' reiterate the singer's deep emotional yearning and his hope for a more harmonious and respectful relationship.