The lyrics of "What You Do to Me" by John Legend express the intense emotional and physical effect that someone has on the speaker. The person inspires and motivates them, yet also causes love and hate to coexist within their relationship.

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Meaning of "What You Do to Me" by John Legend


The lyrics of "What You Do to Me" delve into the complex mix of emotions that can be experienced within a relationship. The song portrays a love-hate dynamic, where the actions and presence of the other person have a profound impact on the speaker. The intensity is emphasized through phrases like "Go from few to a hundred," indicating a rapid escalation of emotions. The lyrics depict a sense of addiction or obsession, as the speaker acknowledges being unable to leave despite the chaos and torture they experience. The use of contrasting emotions such as "love and hate" and "make me feel like I would die if you were out of my life" reflects the internal struggle the speaker faces, torn between conflicting feelings. The repetitive chorus serves as a reminder of the power wielded by the person in question, with lines like "That's what you do to me" emphasizing their ability to have such a profound impact. Overall, the song explores the complexity of passionate love, where intense emotions coexist, leading to simultaneous joy and pain.