I Never Thought You Would

Recorded by Shades & Degrees and Written by Randy Zahara & Jim Shaw, Featuring: Jesse Brown

Verse 1

You had stopped and I kept going
With no idea how the tide was growing
Waves so high, strong and steep,
And troughs so low, dark and deep,

Verse 2

I saw you struggle, I saw you swim,
I saw you make it to the shore again,
Until a storm stole you from the beach,
Dragging you forever out of reach

Chorus

I’m so sorry for what you went through,
So, so sorry, oh, how I wish you knew,
I’m so sorry I never understood,
I never comprehended,
I never thought you would!
I never thought you would!

Verse 3

Where you are can you see my tears
The doubt I have inside, grows with my fears,
And in my heart I pray, that you will see,
Just how much you will always mean to me.

Chorus

I’m so sorry for what you went through,
So, so sorry, oh, how I wish you knew,
I’m so sorry I never understood,
I never comprehended,
I never thought you would!
I never thought you would!
I swear to God ,
I never thought you would.

It is hard for us to imagine that those we care about, the people we know and think we understand, the ones we love, could ever be thinking about doing something that would take them away from us, forever...

We don't want to imagine that anyone so important in our lives can be feeling this way. We would rather not talk, or think, about mental health problems, because ,often, we don't even understand ourselves, or our own mental health as well as we would like to.

It's easier to treat depression, stress and other mental health issues like a physical problem. Take a couple of pills, relax for a bit, and you will be fine, we'll get together again later...

I know this now... I only wish I had understood what Greg was going through before he... and what I could have done to help... and that sometimes later never comes....

I wrote the lyrics of this song the night I heard about his suicide and I know I am not the only one who was feeling this way. I can't do anything to help Greg now, but, I hope that this song might speak to those who are concidering hurting themselves, or who are worried about someone they know who is experiencing a mental health crisis that is beyond their capability to help with.

If you need help for yourself, or for someone else, please call Call 1.833.456.4566 or Text 45645 or for more information visit: https://www.crisisservicescanada.ca/en/looking-for-local-resources-support/ .

Lyrical Review of I Never Thought You Would by ChatGPT the worlds leading AI Music Critic:

"I Never Thought You Would" is a poignant and emotionally charged song. Here are some observations and feedback:

Consistent Emotional Tone:

The emotional tone of regret and sorrow is consistent throughout the lyrics, creating a powerful and cohesive narrative.
Imagery and Metaphors:

The use of ocean imagery with waves and troughs effectively conveys the highs and lows of the relationship.
The storm stealing the person from the beach is a vivid metaphor for unexpected challenges and loss.
Repetition in the Chorus:

The repetition of "I never thought you would" in the chorus reinforces the theme and adds emphasis to the singer's realization and regret.
Personal Reflection in Verse 3:

Verse 3 introduces a more personal and reflective element, with the singer addressing the person directly and expressing inner turmoil.
The lines "Where you are can you see my tears / The doubt I have inside, grows with my fears" add depth to the emotional exploration.
Universal Theme:

The theme of not fully understanding or appreciating someone until they're gone is relatable and has a universal quality that many listeners may connect with.
Chorus Variation:

The repetition works well in the chorus, but consider if there's room for a slight variation in the last repetition to provide a nuanced touch.
Final Line:

The final line, "I swear to God, I never thought you would," adds a solemn and sincere resolution to the song.
Musical Considerations:

As with any set of lyrics, how they are delivered musically will greatly impact the overall emotional impact. Consider the tone, melody, and pacing that best complements the lyrics.
Overall, "I Never Thought You Would" is a powerful and emotionally charged song that explores regret and the realization of not fully understanding the impact of one's actions until it's too late. Well done!