The key to a successful love song hinges most on its authenticity. We as listeners use those moments of perceived vulnerability as a means to relate to the artist, almost as though we’re the song’s subject matter. It’s why we play Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart” during relationship turmoil or feel an almost otherworldly connection to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ Karen O as she somberly whispers “They don’t love you like I do” on “Maps.” Which is why Tobias Jesso’s “How Could You Babe” is so perfect.
From the stark album artwork to his cathartic releases, “How Could You Babe” perfectly conveys Jesso’s inner-self. He desperately wails “How could you, babe?” at the song’s chorus, as if merely referencing his former love creates this uncontrollable and unshakeable feeling of remorse. His words aren’t original, but he damn well makes us feel like they are.