It should have been you
Waterboys · Waterboys [1983]
Can I believe my ears?
is this really you?
Pacing the floor with one eye on the door
watching the winners go through
Why do you hang back now?
why d'you hesitate?
You fires don't burn
for he who waits
Out of all of the people
that I ever knew
If one should have made it
it should have been you!
I know who I'm looking for
but I don't believe my eyes
The sight of you with your head hung low
is a sick, sad suprise
Why do you hang back now?
why d'you hesitate?
How dare you throw it all away then tell me
aw man it must be fate
Out of all of the people
that I ever knew
There had to one I could believe in
and it should have been you!
A gift that dies is a tragic thing
and it happens all the time
But a gift that's wasted, thrown to hell is the
worst of stupid crimes!
I saw you hang back now!
I watched you hesitate!
You're a well respected man, but bullshit!
you could've been great!
Out of all the people
I ever knew
There should have been one
and it should have been you!
I spent my whole life
looking for someone like you!
It should have been you
It should have been you stands as a defining track from The Waterboys' self-titled 1983 debut, capturing the band's early fusion of rock energy with Celtic folk sensibilities. Released during a period of intense experimentation, the recording showcases the group's ability to blend driving rhythms with atmospheric textures that would later characterize their signature Big Music sound. The song reflects the raw, urgent songwriting style that established the band's reputation in the British alternative scene. As part of their initial catalogue, it highlights the artistic vision that propelled them toward subsequent critical acclaim and a diverse discography spanning decades. The track remains a testament to their early commitment to merging traditional influences with modern rock instrumentation.