[Part I: Knew Better]
Say you could turn me on
Boy, but that’s about it
You can say what you wanna
But I wouldn’t believe it
You could write all them songs
That’s the game that you play
Tryna right all them wrongs
But you can’t make me stay
‘Cause I see right through you, boy
And I ain’t feeling you no more
(I ain’t feelin’ you no more, I ain’t feelin’ you no more)
If you knew better
Boy, you would do better
Can’t nobody love you like I do
Baby, I could do better
Boy, if you knew better
You would do better
Baby, if you love me like I love you
Maybe we could be together
‘Cause ain’t nobody like me (Ain’t nobody like me)
Ain’t nobody like me (Ain’t nobody like me)
Ain’t nobody like me
Ain’t nobody like me, ay
Ain’t nobody like me
Ain’t nobody like me
Ain’t nobody like me
Ain’t nobody like me, baby
[Part II: Forever Boy]
Mm, ah
Never been with a boy more than six months
I couldn’t do it, got too used to it, ah
Ain’t nobody ever kept my attention
They couldn’t do it, yeah boy, they blew it
But you showed me what it means to be happy ever after
In love forever
And you gave me the key to all your love and all your pleasure
Boy, you’re my treasure, ah
Oh-whoa, be forever mine, you and I
Oh-whoa, be forever mine, boy, all the time
You’re my forever boy
You’re my forever boy
You’re my forever boy
You’re my forever boy
Been friends for a minute
So you know just what I like
You know my mind, nah
Even seen boys come and go
So you know what makes me cry
See, you’re the one that treat me right
But you showed me what it means to be happy ever after
In love forever
And you gave me the key to all your love and all your pleasure
Boy, you’re my treasure, ah
Oh-whoa, be forever mine, you and I
Oh-whoa, be forever mine, boy, all the time
Oh-whoa, mine, time
Oh-whoa, mine, time
You’re my forever boy
You’re my forever boy
You’re my forever boy
You’re my forever boy
Duality of Love and Self-Worth
“Knew Better / Forever Boy” by Ariana Grande is a dynamic two-part track that explores the transformation from heartbreak to enduring love. The first section, “Knew Better,” finds Ariana asserting her independence and self-worth, calling out a love interest who fails to meet her standards. She declares that only someone who truly understands her could deserve her love, emphasizing empowerment and self-respect. The second part, “Forever Boy,” shifts into a celebratory ode to finding a lasting connection. Ariana sings about discovering a partner who not only understands her but also brings happiness and security, highlighting the comfort and joy of genuine companionship. Together, the song paints a vivid picture of growth, moving from disappointment to the bliss of a relationship built on trust and mutual affection.
Song Credits
Artist: Ariana Grande
Songwriters: Ariana Grande, Tommy Brown, Victoria Monét, Tayla Parx
Release Year: 2016
Label: Republic Records