Meaning of "Make You Smile" by Elle King

"Make You Smile" is a song that celebrates infatuation and the desire to bring joy to someone else. The lyrics convey a sense of intense attraction towards the object of the speaker's affection. The repetition of the phrase "Oh oh oh" throughout the song creates a playful and flirty tone. The speaker finds the person's eyes captivating and admits to being infatuated, feeling like they're "losin' it."

The line "Pretty boy, don't be shy" suggests that the speaker is encouraging the person to be themselves and not hold back. The speaker is drawn to the person's bad ideas and finds it pleasantly surprising to encounter someone so dear. This phrase indicates that the person possesses a unique charm that sets them apart from others.

The chorus emphasizes the speaker's willingness to go to great lengths for the person they are interested in. They proclaim, "Say you'll be my baby and I'll be your girl, and you can have this heart of mine, 'cause I would walk a thousand miles just to make you smile." This declaration demonstrates their commitment to making the person happy and showcases their affectionate nature. The mention of walking a thousand miles is a metaphorical expression of the speaker's willingness to make any effort necessary to see the person smiling.

The second verse describes the person's taste, combining elements of sweetness (sugar mints) and indulgence (cigarettes and beer). This juxtaposition suggests that the person may have contrasting qualities that make them intriguing. The line "I used to hate this town but I'll stay because you're here" reveals that the person's presence has changed the speaker's perspective on their surroundings. They are willing to endure a place they disliked previously because of their fondness for the person.

The final repetition of the chorus reinforces the speaker's commitment to bringing happiness to the person. The emphasis on making the person smile remains paramount throughout the lyrics, demonstrating that their happiness is the speaker's ultimate goal.