Released: 2016
James Arthur’s “Say You Won’t Let Go” is a heart-tugging track that maps out a mega-romantic narrative. It’s all about a guy who’s ready to go the long haul, totally smitten with his girl, and wouldn’t dream of a future without her. It’s a pledge of undying love, from their first meeting to growing old together. Singing about love isn’t new to pop, but Arthur lays it out with a refreshing sincerity.
The song begins with their first encounter – “I met you in the dark, You lit me up”. He was in a dark place, feeling low and she enters his life igniting a spark within him. They have a wild night, tipsy and all, with her getting sick and him being there for her. This incident, as basic as it seems, pulls him further into her charm – “Then you smiled over your shoulder, For a minute, I was stone cold sober”. He’s captivated by her, but too scared to admit his feelings. He wants her to stick around though, planting the idea of a shared future – “But I wanna stay with you until we’re grey and old, Just say you won’t let go”.
The second verse paints a picture of their future domestic life. From making breakfast to dropping kids off at school, he imagines their everyday routine. He’s grateful for how far they’ve come and again promises to stay with her forever – “And I wanna stay with you until we’re grey and old, Just say you won’t let go”. The stakes are even higher here, he’s not only in love with her, he can’t envision life without her by his side.
The final bridge and chorus really seal the pact. He declares his love will outlast even their lives – “I wanna live with you, Even when we’re ghosts” and promises to love her until his dying breath. Now this is a love declaration for the ages! In crafting this song for her, he makes their love story public, setting in stone his commitment to their forever love.
In summary, “Say You Won’t Let Go” is James Arthur’s ultimate love letter, idyllic and super romantic. It’s his promise of unending love. A promise to stick together, through thick and thin, ’til death do them part, just like the vows. All he wants in return is her assurance to hold on and not let go.
