The Meaning Behind The Song: We Both Know by Joshua Bassett
As a music journalist, I often come across songs that captivate me with their lyrics and melodies. One such song that has recently caught my attention is “We Both Know” by Joshua Bassett. This unreleased collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter was intended to appear on Bassett’s eponymous debut EP but was ultimately removed from the tracklist. In this article, I want to delve into the meaning behind this song and share my personal experiences with it.
I first heard “We Both Know” on a lazy Sunday afternoon. I remember stumbling upon this song at a friend’s house, where it played softly in the background. Instantly, the haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics captured my attention. There was a raw honesty in Bassett’s voice that resonated with me on a deep level.
The song begins with the lines, “You came to tell me it’s over, So how’d we end up in my bed? You said we can’t keep on seeing each other, So how come you haven’t left?” These lyrics set the tone for the emotional rollercoaster that unfolds throughout the song. It portrays a complicated romantic relationship where both parties are aware of the inevitable end but struggle to let go.
As the chorus kicks in, Bassett and Carpenter sing, “I can’t keep lying, baby, I don’t know if I can hide anymore, I can’t pretend we’re just friends, We both know where this is going.” This chorus encapsulates the conflicting emotions experienced by the two individuals involved. They are torn between maintaining a facade of friendship and acknowledging the romantic connection that still exists.
The second verse, predominantly sung by Carpenter, adds another layer to the narrative. It showcases a scenario where Carpenter seeks solace in the comfort of someone new, but her true feelings for Bassett resurface. The bridge of the song emphasizes the undeniable desire between the two, with the repeated line, “Say you want me, I, I, I know you want me.”
The decision to remove “We Both Know” from Bassett’s EP was a complex one. In an interview with Billboard, Bassett explained that he wanted the focus to be on the art rather than the drama surrounding Olivia Rodrigo’s hit song “drivers license” which allegedly references Bassett and Carpenter. It was a mutual decision not to release the track at that particular time, in order to prevent it from being overshadowed by the controversy.
Despite not being officially released, “We Both Know” has managed to find its way onto various streaming platforms temporarily. Its emotional depth and relatable lyrics have attracted an enthusiastic fan base that eagerly waits for the song’s official release. The stripped-back production, coupled with the captivating vocal performances, adds an intimate quality to the track.
In conclusion, “We Both Know” by Joshua Bassett and Sabrina Carpenter dives deep into the complexities of a failing romantic relationship. It portrays the struggle of two individuals who can’t deny their feelings for each other, despite attempting to move on. This unreleased gem showcases Bassett’s and Carpenter’s exceptional vocal abilities and leaves listeners eagerly anticipating its official release.
