The Rosanne Cash Never Be You song was released on September 12, 1985 as the second single from the album Rhythm & Romance. The song was Cash’s fifth number one on the country chart. The single went to number one for one week starting January 25, 1986 and spent a total of 16 weeks on the chart. The song was also part of the soundtrack for the 1986 film Streets of Fire, further increasing its reach and impact.
Play the audio video and see the written lyrics below.
Rosanne Cash Never Be You Audio Video
“Never Be You” was written by the prolific songwriting duo Tom Petty and Benmont Tench. Initially recorded as a demo by Petty, the song eventually made its way to Rosanne Cash, who turned it into a hit. It was featured on her album Rhythm & Romance, an album that signaled her transition toward a more contemporary country sound infused with pop and rock elements. This song was first released in 1983 by Maria McKee.
The song explores themes of longing and heartbreak, telling the story of someone trying to move on from a past love but struggling with the realization that no one else will ever compare to the one they lost. The lyrics are both poetic and raw, a hallmark of Rosanne Cash’s style and the influence of Tom Petty’s songwriting genius.
Rosanne Cash Never Be You Lyrics
Take a look at my eyes
It’s been a long, long time
I used to feel so strong
When I knew you were mine
But since you let me down
I’m hard to be around
I don’t know what I’m gonna do
He could never be you
He could never be you
I guess it all comes around
Baby, please don’t cry
Love is gonna be a little reckless
Oh, lovers all have to stand trial
Since you let me go
There’s nothing going on
I don’t know what I’m gonna do
He could never be you [Repeat: x3]
He knows the rules
And he plays the part
But he only has me
He don’t have my heart
He could never be you
So take a look at my eyes
No you can’t hide the truth
No you don’t get by on pride
It’ll run over you
Since you let me down
I’m hard to be around
I don’t know what I’m gonna do
He could never be you [Repeat: x4]
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