If I Ain't Got You
ALICIA KEYS / USHER Lyrics

Some people live for the fortune
There are people who believe that money and wealth are the most important things in life.

Some people live just for the fame
Similarly, some people believe that fame and recognition are the ultimate goals in life.

Some people live for the power, yeah
Certain individuals are motivated by the desire to have control and authority over others.

Some people live just to play the game
Some people enjoy participating in activities and competitions, regardless of the outcome.

Some people think that the physical things define what's within
There are some individuals who believe that material possessions are a reflection of one's personality and character.

And I've been there before, and that life's a bore
The singer has experienced this worldview before, and finds it dull and unfulfilling.

So full of the superficial
The singer believes that this focus on material things is shallow and lacking in depth.

Some people want it all
There are people who desire every possible thing that life has to offer.

But I don't want nothing at all
However, the artist does not share this desire for material possessions and success.

If it ain't you, baby
The only thing the artist truly wants and needs is her significant other.

If I ain't got you, baby
The singer recognizes that without her partner, she would feel incomplete and unhappy.

Some people want diamond rings
There are those who believe that expensive gifts and jewelry are true signs of love and affection.

Some just want everything
Other people have a more general desire for all possible forms of material success and wealth.

But everything means nothing
Despite the widespread belief in the value of material possessions, the singer feels that they ultimately provide little meaning or happiness.

If I ain't got you, yeah
The singer believes that her partner is the only thing that truly gives her life significance and joy.

Some people search for a fountain
There are individuals who seek out magical or mythical sources of eternal youth or beauty.

That promises forever young (you know)
These fountains are often believed to have the power to keep one young and vibrant forever.

Some people need three dozen roses
Others believe that receiving expensive or excessive gifts is a necessary condition for feeling love and happiness.

And that's the only way to prove you love them
Some people require constant displays of affection and material exchange as proof of love.

Hand me the world on a silver platter
There are individuals who desire the entire world, handed to them on a shiny and costly platter.

And what good would it be
However, the artist believes that even if such a thing were possible, it would ultimately provide little satisfaction or real worth.

With no one to share, with no one who truly cares for me
Without someone to share in the experience and provide genuine care and love, any amount of material success would be meaningless to the artist.

If I ain't got you with me, baby, oh, ooh
The singer reiterates that the only thing that truly matters to her is her partner.

Said nothing in this whole wide world don't mean a thing
Without her loved one, the artist believes that nothing else in the world would have any value or significance.

If I ain't got you with me, baby
The singer repeats that her partner is the only thing that truly fills her heart and soul with meaning and purpose.