Meaning of "Credit" by Meghan Trainor

"Credit" by Meghan Trainor explores the complex emotions that can arise after a breakup and seeing an ex move on. The narrator is feeling a mix of jealousy and frustration as she observes her ex-boyfriend with his new girlfriend. She believes she had a significant impact on him and made him a better person through her efforts. This is evidenced by lines such as "I bought him brand new clothes and burned his skinny jeans" and "I taught him everything, now he can last for hours." She seems to be seeking acknowledgment and validation for her contributions to his growth. The lyrics suggest that she wants the new girlfriend to recognize her influence and thank her for improving him.

The song also highlights the narrator's feelings of superiority and competitiveness. She takes pride in the changes she made to her ex-boyfriend's appearance and behavior. By emphasizing that she made him more attractive and "cool," the lyrics reveal a need for validation and recognition of her own worth. The line "I guess that makes me pretty awesome" indicates a desire for praise and admiration.

Additionally, the song explores themes of self-worth and inauthentic relationships. The narrator expresses that she was not in love with her ex-boyfriend and ultimately ended the relationship. Despite this, she still wants to be acknowledged for her efforts. This suggests a possible need for external validation and suggests that she may have been seeking a sense of identity or self-worth through her relationship with him.

Ultimately, "Credit" delves into the complicated emotions that can emerge when dealing with a breakup and seeing an ex move on. It reveals the need for validation, recognition, and a desire to be seen for the impact one has had on another person's life. It is a commentary on the human need for acknowledgment and the complexities of relationships.