Irish musician Róisín Murphy recently released 'You Knew', the fourth single from her upcoming sixth album, Hit Parade. This single follows a series of songs released to tease the album, which includes 'CooCool', 'The Universe', and 'Fader'. The album was on release on September 8th via Ninja Tune to rave reviews. The single doesn't just include the standard mix of the song, but also features two remixes by Payfone and Eli Escobar, as well as an edited edition.

Murphy on 'You Knew'

Murphy has shared some insights about the new track. She says, "'You Knew' is the story of my life. I’m an open book, I put myself on the line and I make my motivations obvious." She continued by expressing her pride in being brave enough to love, even when it is not reciprocated. "Many times, I have bravely loved and not been loved in return, and I’m proud of that." She believes the phrase 'You Knew' succinctly sums up her life's experiences, even joking that it could be inscribed on her headstone, although she quipped she has already decided her headstone will say, "You Had Your Chance!"

A Look Back at Murphy's Career

Róisín Murphy first gained prominence in the 1990s as one half of the electronic duo Moloko with Mark Brydon. The duo achieved international success with their song 'Sing It Back'. In 2005, Murphy embarked on a solo career, releasing several well-received albums. Her efforts earned her a Mercury Prize nomination for her 2015 record, Hairless Toys. A year later, she received the AIM Independent Music Awards prize for her 'Outstanding Contribution to Music'.

'You Knew' Lyrics Analysis

The lyrics of 'You Knew' reflect Murphy's forthrightness and willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.

In the [Chorus], she sings:

"What you expect me to toe the line for?

Extra! Read all about it

When you were given fair warning

Extra! Read all about it

What you expect me to toe the line for?

Extra! Read all about it

What you expect me to toe the line for?

You knew exactly what you were buying"

These lines highlight Murphy's frustration with someone who ignores warnings and then acts surprised by the consequences. She challenges the expectations placed upon her, ultimately asserting that the other party was fully aware of the situation from the outset.

In the [Verse], she continues:

"Don't come the innocent boy

Admit that you've got your motives

You knew exactly what motivates me

I believe the record will show this"

Here, Murphy confronts someone who is playing innocent, urging them to admit their motives and acknowledge that they understood her motivations as well.

Finally, in the [Bridge], she expresses a deep sense of disappointment and frustration:

"You knew

And I think you've always known I have feelings for you that burn

You knew

But you just won't go there with me

You knew

And take some sort of responsibility

Your mere reactions

I take actions"

Murphy reveals her feelings for someone and her disappointment that they won't reciprocate or take responsibility for their actions. She contrasts their passive reactions with her proactive approach, emphasizing her willingness to confront issues head-on.

Conclusion

Róisín Murphy's 'You Knew' is a poignant and powerful reflection on unreciprocated love, expectations, and responsibility. The lyrics, combined with the haunting melody, create a deeply emotional and relatable narrative. With this single, and the album, Murphy continues to showcase her musical evolution and emotional depth.