What Can I Do
Louie Short Lyrics


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I tried to meet you at your own pace
Going in circles at such speed
I was just out to make deliveries
Trying to get you what you need

Holding up, and holding on
Is such a scam
Tell me you don’t need to touch somebody else’s hand

What in the world can I do
You won’t change a thing for me
I was counting on you
To take a chance on me

You and I, we have a certain charm
Not so easily found
I swear that I could turn you on
But you only turn me down

Lonely nights and broken hearts
Used to be your style
What if I told you I would
Stick around for awhile

What in the world can I do
You won’t change a thing for me
I was counting on you
To take a chance on me

We are two people with one memory
Lost in each other’s best laid plans
You were afraid to give your love to me
I was afraid to be anything but your man

Cryin’ eyes, compromise
Won’t get you what you need
Tell me, look me in the eyes
And say that It ain’t me

What in the world can I do
You won’t change a thing for me




I was counting on you
To take a chance on me

Overall Meaning

In Louie Short's song "What Can I Do," the lyrics tell a story of a relationship that is stuck in a frustrating and stagnant state. The singer expresses their efforts to meet their partner halfway and make things work, but they feel like they are just going in circles at a fast pace without any progress. They mention that they were only trying to do whatever it takes to fulfill their partner's needs and desires.


The lyrics highlight the feeling of being held back and held onto by their partner, which they describe as a scam. They yearn for the intimacy and connection that comes from physical touch, but their partner seems distant and uninterested. The singer questions what they can do to change the situation and make a difference, knowing deep down that their efforts won't have an impact. They had hoped that their partner would take a chance on them and embrace the possibilities of their relationship, but it seems unlikely.


The lyrics also delve into the complexities of the relationship dynamic. The singer acknowledges that they share a unique charm that is not easily found in others, and they believe they have the ability to ignite a spark in their partner. However, they are constantly faced with rejection and a lack of reciprocity. The singer contemplates what it would take for their partner to open up and take a risk, emphasizing their willingness to stick around and invest more time into the relationship.


Overall, "What Can I Do" explores the frustration, longing, and desire for change within a relationship that feels stagnant and unfulfilling. It touches on the themes of unrequited love, fear of commitment, and the struggle to find a balance between two individuals.


Line by Line Meaning

I tried to meet you at your own pace
I made an effort to adjust myself to your speed and rhythm


Going in circles at such speed
Engaging in a repetitive pattern rapidly without making progress


I was just out to make deliveries
My intention was simply to fulfill your needs and desires


Trying to get you what you need
Striving to provide you with the things that are necessary for you


Holding up, and holding on Is such a scam
Persisting and enduring through difficulties and challenges is deceptive in nature


Tell me you don’t need to touch somebody else’s hand
Assure me that you don't require the touch or connection with someone else


What in the world can I do
I am uncertain about the actions I can take to make a difference


You won’t change a thing for me
Your actions or decisions have no impact or influence on my life


I was counting on you
I had hopes and expectations that relied on you


To take a chance on me
To give me an opportunity to prove myself or to invest in a romantic relationship with me


You and I, we have a certain charm
We possess a unique and appealing quality when we are together


Not so easily found
Our special connection is not readily discoverable elsewhere


I swear that I could turn you on
I confidently believe that I can evoke a strong attraction or desire within you


But you only turn me down
However, you consistently reject or decline my advances


Lonely nights and broken hearts
Situations characterized by feelings of isolation and emotional pain


Used to be your style
These circumstances were previously typical or customary for you


What if I told you I would
Consider the possibility if I were to inform you that I am willing to


Stick around for awhile
Remain present and committed for a certain period of time


We are two people with one memory
We share a collective recollection or experience despite being separate individuals


Lost in each other’s best laid plans
Caught up in the failed or disrupted intentions and schemes of one another


You were afraid to give your love to me
You had a fear or reluctance to offer your affection and romantic attachment to me


I was afraid to be anything but your man
I was fearful of deviating from the role and identity of being exclusively your partner or lover


Cryin’ eyes, compromise
Eyes filled with tears and the act of making concessions or sacrifices


Won’t get you what you need
These actions will not satisfy or fulfill your desires


Tell me, look me in the eyes And say that It ain’t me
Confront me directly, make eye contact, and firmly deny that I am the cause or source of the issue




Lyrics Β© O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Louis D. Short

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

the son of beverley

love the writting!!!

No Frills

The chorus πŸ₯Ί

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