The meaning of I Was Never There by The Weeknd

Canadian singer-songwriter Abel Tesfaye, better known by his stage name The Weeknd, has consistently stirred hearts and minds with his enigmatic lyrics and distinctive R&B sound. One track that has particularly struck chords with listeners is 'I Was Never There' from his 2018 Extended Play (EP), 'My Dear Melancholy,'. This song's emotionally-charged lyrics and haunting melody demonstrate Tesfaye grappling with heartache and existentialism, inviting listeners into his complex emotional landscape.

The narrative behind 'I Was Never There' is an expressive account of The Weeknd's pain and despair following the end of a significant relationship. In the song, the artist conveys that he is trying to cope with his feelings primarily through destructive habits, possibly including substance abuse. The song's title itself suggests that he feels detached and denied from his experience, implying an attempt to dissociate from painful memories as if he was never part of them.

Piecing together the lyrics, 'I Was Never There' presents a stark and gloomy realm. In the lines "It's all because of you, I don't know what to do, It hurts too much to be left alone" The Weeknd implies the profound impact another person has had on him, leading to emotional pain and an exhausting mental state. He bares his vulnerability without divesting it of power and thus generates a potent resonance with anyone who has grappled with distress and heartache after a relationship's end.

Critics have frequently linked The Weeknd's 'My Dear Melancholy,' EP to his relationship with Selena Gomez. Consequently, some might interpret 'I Was Never There' in this context, as a veiled recounting of their breakup. This conjecture grants the song an added layer of depth, providing an intimately personal glimpse into Tesfaye's experiences. However, it's essential to notice that the artist himself has never corroborated this.

Musically, the collaboration between The Weeknd and French techno artist Gesaffelstein gives 'I Was Never There' its mesmerizing sound. It's a masterstroke of musical composition, blending in R&B richness with electronic elements to create something truly captivating. The melody's haunting character complements the lyrics perfectly, creating a raw and intense atmosphere encapsulating the singer's emotions.

In closing, 'I Was Never There' by The Weeknd is an evocative piece of music that bravely navigates through the emotional turbulence of heartbreak and existential pain. Despite the grim themes, its beauty lies in its relatability, delivering a cathartic experience for those dealing with similar emotions. This track once again demonstrates The Weeknd's profound ability to turn personal agony into captivating art, illustrating why he continues to be a paramount figure in contemporary R&B.