Released: 2014
Sam Smith’s “I’m Not The Only One” is a soulful ballad that delves into the pain of infidelity and the heartbreak of realizing that your partner has been unfaithful. The song captures the emotional turmoil of feeling betrayed and the struggle to let go, even when the truth is evident.
The opening lines set the stage for a relationship that was once solid, with a vow made “for better or for worse.” However, the singer is blindsided by betrayal, feeling the sting of their partner’s actions. The phrase “the proof’s in the way it hurts” is a powerful way to say that the pain itself is evidence of the wrongdoing.
As the song progresses, the singer admits to having doubts for months, trying to deny the tears and hoping for closure. Despite the betrayal, there’s a sense of dependency, a need for the partner to stay, which is a common theme in relationships where love and hurt coexist.
The chorus hits hard with the accusation of being called “crazy” for suspecting infidelity. But the singer is sure of the betrayal, knowing they’re “not the only one” being called “baby.” This is a direct hit at the partner’s attempts to gaslight or downplay their actions.
In the second verse, the singer notes the partner’s unavailability and the realization that their heart is “unobtainable.” This suggests emotional distance and the feeling of being left out in the cold, despite having given their own heart fully.
The bridge is a moment of introspection, where the singer questions their own worth, wondering if they’re “just not enough.” The partner’s lies have brought out the singer’s deepest fears, tearing the relationship apart.
The repetition of “I know I’m not the only one” in the outro reinforces the singer’s certainty about the betrayal. It’s a powerful statement of awareness and acceptance, even as the pain lingers.
