Nevertheless
Count Basie & Joe Williams Lyrics

I knew the time had to come
The singer knew that eventually they would be in a submissive position in the relationship

When I'd be held under your thumb
The singer would be controlled by their partner

I'm like a pawn in your hand
The singer feels manipulated by their partner

Moved and compelled, at your command
The artist is obedient to their partner’s every request

Whether it's for bad or for good
Regardless of the outcome of the relationship

I would never change it if I could
The singer wouldn't alter the course of the relationship if given the chance

Maybe I'm right, maybe I'm wrong
The singer is unsure if the relationship is going well or not

Maybe I'm weak, maybe I'm strong
The artist is uncertain of their personal strength in the relationship

But nevertheless I'm in love with you
Despite the ambiguity, the artist has strong feelings for their partner

Maybe I'll win, maybe I'll lose
The future outcome of the relationship is unknown

And maybe I'm in for crying the blues
There's a possibility of hurt and sadness in the relationship

But nevertheless I'm in love with you
Despite the uncertainty and risk, the artist remains in love with their partner

Somehow, I know at a glance, the terrible chances I'm taking
The singer is aware of the risks involved in the relationship

Fine at the start, then left with a heart that is breaking
The start of the relationship was good, but it may end in heartbreak

Maybe I'll live a life of regret,
The singer may experience remorse for their choice to stay in the relationship

And maybe I'll give much more than I get
The artist may put in more effort than their partner

But nevertheless, I'm in love with you
Despite the sacrifices, the artist loves their partner

In spite of all I could do
The singer has tried to fight their feelings

I went ahead falling for you
Despite the hesitation, the singer gave in to love

So if I laugh or I cry
The artist may experience either joy or sorrow in the relationship

I made my bed, that's where I'll lie
The artist recognizes that they have made a choice and will accept the consequences of that decision

For what happens there's no excuse
The artist takes full responsibility for the outcome of the relationship

I put my own head in the noose
The singer willingly took a risk in the relationship