You used to know me, now you don’t
You used to hypnotize me, did it so easy
You, you, you, you
You had me ’round your finger
You had me on the floor
I used to be your angel
Now I’m walking out your door
You say I’m turning evil
I’ll say I’m finally pure
Shine bright in my reflection
Think I lost myself before
Held me back, tied me up inside a cage
Had to change my life ’cause I knew you’d stay the same
Couldn’t see you were standing in my way
I can see clearly now, now, now
You used to know me, now you don’t
You used to hypnotize me, did it so easy
I’m finally free from your control
I don’t need a kiss goodbye
I’m on my own tonight, ohh
You used to know me, now you don’t
You used to hypnotize me, did it so easy
I’m finally free from your control
I don’t need a kiss goodbye
I’m on my own tonight, ohh
I’m like a flower blooming
Since I left you behind
Don’t know what I was doing
Thought your venom was divine
Knew you were turning evil
You said I lost my mind
No you ain’t gon’ do me like that
Held me back, tied me up inside a cage
Had to change my life ’cause I knew you’d stay the same
Couldn’t see you were standing in my way
I can see clearly now, now, now
You used to know me, now you don’t
You used to hypnotize me, did it so easy
I’m finally free from your control
I don’t need a kiss goodbye
I’m on my own tonight, ohh
La-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la
(La-la-la-la) La-la-la-la-la-la
(Uh, yeah) La-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la
You used to know me, now you don’t
Breaking Free: The Empowerment in “Used To Know Me”
Charli XCX’s “Used To Know Me” is a bold declaration of independence and self-rediscovery. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of breaking free from a controlling relationship, emphasizing the journey from manipulation to personal empowerment. Charli recounts how she was once under someone’s spell, controlled and diminished, but has since reclaimed her autonomy. The recurring phrase, “You used to know me, now you don’t,” captures her transformation and newfound clarity. The song’s infectious energy, paired with defiant lines about blooming and walking away, encapsulates the liberation that comes from reclaiming one’s identity. Ultimately, it’s a dance-pop anthem for anyone who’s ever realized their worth and chosen themselves over toxicity.
Song Credits
- Artist: Charli XCX
- Songwriters: Charli XCX, Oscar Holter, Noonie Bao, Caroline Ailin
- Release Year: 2022
- Label: Atlantic Records