Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: pop
Song Meaning of “What You Need” by The Weeknd
The Weeknd’s song “What You Need” is all about recognizing and embracing the importance of self-love. The singer begins by asking his lover what she feels she needs in order to feel happy, and his message to her is clear: “What you need ain’t nobody else, it’s yourself.” He acknowledges that she may have come to him looking for something material or emotional, but what she really needs is something deeper–the kind of self-love and appreciation that can only come from within.
He’s also encouraging her to recognize and accept her flaws and vulnerabilities. He sings, “What you need is understanding, don’t need nobody’s perfect love.” By telling her to be accepting of her imperfections, he’s also declaring his unconditional love and acceptance of her.
Ultimately, the song serves as a reminder that we can’t truly be loved and accepted by anyone else until we become our very own biggest fans. When the singer says, “You don’t need nobody to take you away, no, no, ooh,” he’s talking about a kind of salvation that can only come from within. In the end, this is a song about realizing that true love and acceptance must start within in order to grow outside.