REVIEW: ELIJAH WOODS EXPLORES HEARTBREAK IN CATCHY NEW SINGLE
When listeners play Elijah Woods’ newest single ‘Could You Love Me?’ they may expect a tragic, yearning love song based on the title; one of longing for intimacy and adoration from someone. Instead, the track immediately dives in with a high energy beat topped with unforgiving, bitter lyrics — and it works so well.
A combination of pure pop production, catchy melodies, introspective lyrics and crisp vocals, ‘Could You Love Me?’ cements itself as an anthem everyone can enjoy, setting the singer up for a promising year ahead.
Woods, who was born in Canada and now lives in Los Angeles, is a singer-songwriter and producer with three EP releases, an opening slot for Niall Horan and a sold-out Asia tour already under his belt.
Since Woods considers himself a producer first, creating a catchy, anthemic pop instrumental was crucial to the track. Using dreamy synths and drums that make you want to dance, Woods builds a world that encapsulates listeners, drawing them deep into his whirlwind of pulsing beats and captivating vocals.
Lyrically, this song explores the heartbreak one feels when they realize the person they loved will only ever think of themselves. Woods’ songwriting cuts deep, balancing the pain that follows a relationship’s end and the anger one feels because of it.
“Could you love me like you love yourself? / You set me up just to make me feel stupid / Is it all a joke? / Am I nothing to you?” Woods asks in the chorus.
Photo Credit: Brittany Berggren
The lyrics throughout the entire track follow this theme: one of pointed questioning toward their ex-partner, wondering if they could ever be selfless enough to make for a good relationship.
The bridge stands out lyrically the most, with Woods asking this person who they think they are to be so controlling. In repeated lyrics, the singer wonders if his ex expects him to “count my lucky stars” or “be down on my knees”, showing — sarcastically — that he realizes the pain this person caused him and vows to take back his autonomy.
‘Could You Love Me?’ is the perfect example of a happy, pop anthem at the surface, but explores pure depth and vulnerability at its core. With this track, Woods is solidifying himself into the pop scene, letting listeners know he is here to stay.
