Have you ever noticed how often the phrase “you know” appears in popular music? From classic rock to modern pop, this two-word phrase seems to be a staple in songwriting. Let’s explore the depths of “you know” and its various uses in music.
The Filler Phrase
Perhaps the most common use of “you know” in music is as a filler phrase. It’s inserted into a song to give the singer or musician time to think or transition to the next line. For example, in The Beatles’ hit song “Hey Jude,” Paul McCartney sings “Well you know that it’s a fool who plays it cool by making his world a little colder.” The “you know” here doesn’t really add any meaning to the lyrics; it just fills the space between “well” and “that.”
Another example of the filler phrase can be found in Beyoncé’s “Love Drought.” In the second verse, she sings “You and me could stop this love drought.” The “you know” in this case serves as a way to connect the first and second lines of the verse without having to pause for too long.
The Intimate Address
In some cases, “you know” is used as an intimate address to the listener. It’s as if the singer is confiding in the listener on a personal level. An example of this can be found in Billie Eilish’s “Ocean Eyes.” In the chorus, she sings “No fair, you really know how to make me cry when you give me those ocean eyes.” The “you know” here is directed at the person she’s singing to and helps create a sense of intimacy between singer and listener.
Another example of the intimate address can be found in John Mayer’s “Gravity.” In the second verse, he sings “You know I love you when you’re loving me.” The “you know” here is directed at his partner, and it helps create a feeling of closeness between them.
The Emphasis
Sometimes “you know” is used for emphasis. It’s inserted into a song to make a point or to emphasize a particular phrase. An example of this can be found in Adele’s “Someone Like You.” In the chorus, she sings “Never mind, I’ll find someone like you. I wish nothing but the best for you too. Don’t forget me, I beg, I remember you said, ’Sometimes it lasts in love but sometimes it hurts instead.’” The “you know” in this case emphasizes that Adele is specifically talking to her ex-partner and that she remembers what they said about love lasting versus hurting.
Another example of the emphasis can be found in Prince’s “Purple Rain.” In the bridge, he sings “I only wanted to see you bathing in the purple rain.” The “you know” here emphasizes that Prince isn’t just singing about anyone; he’s singing about a specific person he has in mind.
The Conclusion
So what can we conclude about “you know” in music? Well, it’s clear that this two-word phrase serves a variety of purposes. It can be a filler phrase, an intimate address, a way to add emphasis to a point, or even just a habit that some singers and musicians have. Regardless of its use, “you know” has become so ingrained in popular music that it’s hard to imagine a world without it.
Next time you listen to your favorite song, pay attention to how often “you know” appears. You might be surprised at just how prevalent it is.
