I said I wanted Thin Mints and you said you knew a guy
You showed up with a boombox and stars in your eyes
Who knew cuddling on trampolines could be so reckless?
We bonded over Black Eyed Peas and complicated exes
Fell so deeply into it
It was all so innocent
Now I’m a homewrecker, I’m a slut
I got death threats fillin’ up semitrucks
Tell me who I am, guess I don’t have a choice
All because I liked—
I’m the hot topic on your tongue
I’m a rebound gettin’ ’round stealin’ from the young
Tell me who I am, guess I don’t have a choice
All because I liked a boy
Ah, mm
I’m not catastrophizing, everything’s derailing
Was only tryna hold you close while your heart was failing
It’s not internet illusion, just two kids going through it
You said I’m too late to be your first love, but I’ll always be your favorite
Now I’m a homewrecker, I’m a slut
I got death threats fillin’ up semitrucks
Tell me who I am, guess I don’t have a choice
All because I liked—
I’m the hot topic on your tongue
I’m a rebound gettin’ ’round stealin’ from the young
Tell me who I am, guess I don’t have a choice
All because I liked a boy
Ah
Ah
Ah
All because I liked a boy
Fell so deeply into it
It was all so innocent
Dating boys with exes
No, I wouldn’t recommend it
I’m a homewrecker, I’m a slut
I got death threats fillin’ up semitrucks
Tell me who I am, guess I don’t have a choice
All because I liked a boy
And all of this for what?
When everything went down, we’d already broken up
Please tell me who I am, guess I don’t have a choice
All because I liked a boy
Ah (A boy)
Ah (A boy)
Ah
All because I liked a boy
Unpacking Vulnerability and Judgment
“because i liked a boy” by Sabrina Carpenter delivers a raw, confessional look into the complexities of young love and the harsh public scrutiny that can follow. Carpenter candidly describes a romance that starts innocently—with shared snacks, nostalgic music, and candid conversations—only to spiral into controversy and backlash. The lyrics highlight the singer’s bewilderment at how a personal relationship became a public spectacle, with accusations and judgment raining down from all sides. Through lines like “I’m a homewrecker, I’m a slut,” Carpenter confronts the labels and threats she received, underscoring how quickly narratives can spiral out of control, especially in the digital age.
Empathy and Authenticity
At its core, the song is a plea for empathy and understanding. Carpenter’s honest storytelling lays bare the pain of being misunderstood and vilified for simply following her heart. The refrain “All because I liked a boy” becomes a powerful mantra, emphasizing how disproportionate the response was to a normal, if complicated, romantic experience. The song resonates as an anthem for anyone who has felt judged or defined by rumors rather than their true intentions.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Sabrina Carpenter, Julia Michaels, JP Saxe
Release Year: 2022
Label: Island Records