Tell the Truth
Tobias Jesso JR Lyrics


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Why don’t you let me go?
I’d like to know
Why don’t you save the lies?
It’s no surprise

Why don’t you tell the truth sometime?
You know you should
Why don’t you stop this game
Of who’s to blame?
Why don’t you say goodbye?
It’s in your eyes

Why don’t you tell the truth sometime?
You know you should

Don’t hesitate to tell me straight
Oh, I want you to

Why don’t you tell the truth sometime?
You know you should





Would you tell the truth?
Tell the truth, tell the truth

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Tobias Jesso Jr.'s song "Tell the Truth" are a plea for honesty in a struggling relationship. The singer is asking their partner to stop the lies and blame game and instead face the truth about their situation. They openly question why their partner won't let them go or say goodbye, stating that it's obvious in their eyes. The repeated refrain "Why don't you tell the truth sometime? You know you should" is an acknowledgement that honesty is difficult but necessary for the relationship to move forward. The singer is vulnerable and direct, asking their partner to tell them straight.


Overall, the song expresses a sense of frustration and sadness in a relationship that is missing openness and honesty. The lyrics capture the exhaustion of being lied to and the desire to start fresh with a clean slate. The simple chord progression and gentle instrumentation highlight the emotional weight of the lyrics.


Line by Line Meaning

Why don’t you let me go?
Why are you holding me back?


I’d like to know
I deserve an explanation


Why don’t you save the lies?
Why don't you stop deceiving me?


It’s no surprise
I already know you're lying


Why don’t you tell the truth sometime?
It's time for you to come clean


You know you should
You're aware of your obligation to be honest


Why don’t you stop this game
Stop playing with my emotions


Of who’s to blame?
You're trying to avoid responsibility


Why don’t you say goodbye?
Why don't you end this relationship?


It’s in your eyes
Your nonverbal communication already shows it


Don’t hesitate to tell me straight
Don't be afraid to reveal the truth directly


Oh, I want you to
I'm hoping for you to be truthful


Would you tell the truth?
Are you capable of being honest?


Tell the truth, tell the truth
Reaffirming the importance of honesty




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: TOBIAS MACDONALD JESSO

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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