Cry Me a River
by Justin Timberlake
What is “Cry Me a River” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Cry Me a River” by Justin Timberlake is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
Justin Timberlake's 'Cry Me a River' encapsulates feelings of betrayal and the end of a relationship, highlighting a deep sense of loss and indignation after discovering infidelity.
So… what’s this song really about?
In 'Cry Me a River,' Justin Timberlake explores the raw emotions and turmoil that ensue after the discovery of a partner's betrayal. The song adeptly captures the blend of pain, anger, and disillusionment that follows such a discovery, framing the narrative through Timberlake's personal confrontation with his partner's unfaithfulness and his decision to walk away from the relationship. This emotionally charged track not only addresses the sadness of a broken trust but also delves into themes of empowerment and catharsis. The recurring motif of crying a river serves as both a call for empathy and a release of grief, underlining how deeply personal hurt can transform into a broader gesture of closure and moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who wrote 'Cry Me a River' by Justin Timberlake?
Justin Timberlake wrote 'Cry Me a River' along with Timbaland and Scott Storch.
Q: What was the inspiration behind 'Cry Me a River'?
Although often speculated to be about his break-up with Britney Spears, Timberlake has mentioned it reflects more general feelings of heartbreak and betrayal.
Lyrics to “Cry Me a River”
95 Contributors
[Verse 2: Justin Timberlake]
You know that they say that some things are better left unsaid
And it wasn't like you only talked to him and you know it
Don't act like you don't know it
And all of these things people told me keep messin' with my head (Messin' with my head)
Should've picked honesty, then you may not have blown it, yeah
[Pre-Chorus: Justin Timberlake]
You don't have to say (Don't have to say)
What you did (What you did)
I already know (I already know)
I found out from him (Uh)
Now there's just no chance (No chance)
With you and me (You and me)
There'll never be
And don't it make you sad about it?
[Chorus: Justin Timberlake]
You told me you loved me, why did you leave me all alone? (All alone)
Now you tell me you need me when you call me on the phone (When you call me on the phone)
Girl, I refuse, you must have me confused with some other guy (Not like them, baby)
The bridges were burned, now it's your turn (It's your turn) to cry (So)
Cry me a river (Go on and just)
Cry me a river (Go on and just)
Cry me a river (Baby, go on and just)
Cry me a river (Yeah, yeah)
[Bridge: Timbaland & Justin Timberlake]
Oh (Oh, well)
The damage is done, so I guess I'll be leavin' (Oh, oh, oh)
Oh (Oh, well)
The damage is done, so I guess I'll be leavin' (Oh, oh, oh)
Oh (Oh, well)
The damage is done, so I guess I'll be leavin' (Oh, oh, oh)
Oh (Oh, well)
The damage is done, so I guess I'll be l-l-l-l-leavin' (Oh, oh, oh)
[Pre-Chorus: Justin Timberlake]
You don't have to say (Don't have to say)
What you did (What you did)
I already know (I already know)
I found out from him (Uh)
Now there's just no chance (No chance)
With you and me (You and me)
There'll never be
Don't it make you sad about it?
[Chorus: Justin Timberlake]
Cry me a river (Go on and just)
Cry me a river (Baby, go on and just)
Cry me a river (You can go on and just)
Cry me a river (Yeah, yeah)
Cry me a river (Baby, go on and just)
Cry me a river (Go on and just)
Cry me a river (Come on, baby, cry)
Cry me a river (Don't wanna cry no more, yeah, yeah)
[Outro: Justin Timberlake]
Cry me a river
Cry me a river
Oh, cry me a river
Oh, cry me a river
Oh, cry me a river (Cry me, cry me)
Oh, cry me a river (Cry me, cry me)
Oh, cry me a river (Cry me, cry me)
Oh, cry me a river (Cry me, cry me)
Oh, cry me a river (Cry me, cry me)
Oh, cry me a river (Cry me, cry me)
Oh, cry me a river (Cry me, cry me)