treat you better lyrics
Released in 2016, “Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes quickly rose to prominence as one of his most emotionally resonant tracks. Behind its pop-rock melodies and catchy chorus lies a powerful message about unrequited love, emotional abuse, and the desire to see someone be treated with the respect they deserve.
The lyrics offer a heartfelt declaration from someone watching the person they care for suffer in a relationship that clearly doesn’t serve them. It’s not just a romantic plea—it’s a moral statement wrapped in a pop single. “Treat You Better” stands out for turning a personal narrative into a universal anthem about self-worth, awareness, and emotional honesty.
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind the lyrics, the cultural impact, the music video, and why this song remains a fan favorite.
The Song’s Origin and Artist’s Growth
Shawn Mendes began his career through social media platforms like Vine, gaining attention for his cover songs and boy-next-door charm. But by the time “Treat You Better” released as the lead single from his second album “Illuminate”, he was already evolving into a more mature artist.
This song marked a shift in tone and subject matter. It reflected emotional depth, vocal intensity, and a broader understanding of relationships—particularly the difficult situations many find themselves in when they feel trapped in unhealthy dynamics.
Produced by Teddy Geiger, Dan Romer, and Daylight, the song features minimalist instrumentation, driven by a moody guitar riff, melancholy synths, and Mendes’ impassioned vocals. The subtle production allows the lyrics and emotion to take center stage.
Breaking Down the Lyrics: Love vs. Protection
The opening lines of the song immediately communicate urgency and concern:
“I won’t lie to you / I know he’s just not right for you.”
These words aren’t manipulative—they’re observational. The speaker isn’t trying to win the girl for his own satisfaction but rather to point out that she deserves better treatment and emotional safety.
The chorus is both a plea and a promise:
“I know I can treat you better than he can / And any girl like you deserves a gentleman.”
This isn’t a boast—it’s a vow. He offers respect, kindness, and patience, contrasting himself against the current partner’s neglect or abuse. The message goes beyond romance; it serves as a reminder that love is measured by actions, not declarations.
Later lines like “Tell me why are we wasting time on all your wasted crying” express frustration with inaction, but they also reveal how hard it can be to watch someone settle for less. The entire narrative revolves around a common experience: loving someone who doesn’t see their own worth.
Emotional and Social Undertones
While the song is presented in the form of a love triangle, the underlying message addresses broader societal issues. Many people, particularly young women, find themselves in toxic relationships but don’t always have the emotional tools or support to leave.
“Treat You Better” offers a different male perspective—one of empathy rather than control. It doesn’t shame the girl for her choices; it challenges her to imagine a healthier alternative.
This emotional maturity sets the song apart from many others in the same genre. It’s not about winning a person; it’s about helping them win themselves back.
Music Video: Visualizing a Toxic Relationship
The official music video for “Treat You Better” adds significant emotional weight to the song. Directed by Ryan Pallotta, the video features scenes of domestic violence, emotional distress, and a concerned Shawn watching from a distance. It’s not glamorous or exaggerated—the storytelling is raw and grounded in real-life struggles.
The girl in the video is shown trapped in a cycle of fear and emotional manipulation, with Mendes representing a passive yet emotionally invested observer. His inability to directly intervene mirrors the frustration many feel when watching someone they love stay in a harmful situation.
At the end of the video, viewers are shown a domestic violence support message, further anchoring the song’s deeper purpose. You can explore a powerful visual analysis of the video on Genius.com’s video breakdown.
Commercial Success and Global Reception
“Treat You Better” was a commercial triumph. It reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and charted in over 40 countries, including the UK, Australia, and Canada. The single went multi-platinum, earning critical acclaim for its production and emotional sincerity.
The song also became a staple in Shawn Mendes’ live performances. Whether performed acoustically or with a full band, the raw vocal delivery and lyrical clarity make it a standout in any setlist.
Its crossover appeal—touching both teen audiences and adult listeners—helped the track gain longevity on both radio and streaming platforms. The song has amassed hundreds of millions of views on YouTube and continues to be a favorite on Spotify playlists for breakups and self-reflection.
Cultural Relevance and Legacy
One of the lasting impacts of “Treat You Better” is its role in opening conversations about emotional health in relationships, especially for young audiences. It encouraged listeners to recognize red flags, understand their worth, and believe they deserve more than bare minimum affection.
Unlike many pop songs that glamorize jealousy or heartbreak, this one promotes respectful love and empowerment. It teaches that being a partner is not about being possessive but about protecting someone’s dignity—even if from a distance.
The song also marked a turning point in Shawn Mendes’ public image. No longer just a teen idol, he began to be seen as a serious artist with something meaningful to say.
For those interested in how songs like this influence teen relationship dynamics, the Love Is Respect resource offers valuable insight into the themes reflected in the song.
Conclusion: A Modern Ballad with a Message
“Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes isn’t just a pop hit—it’s a reflection of modern emotional awareness, a call for compassion, and a reminder that real love is gentle, supportive, and respectful. The song delivers a powerful message within a digestible and memorable format, making it one of the standout tracks of Mendes’ career.
Whether you’re a fan of the melody, moved by the message, or inspired by the visuals, “Treat You Better” resonates because it speaks a truth many have felt but struggled to express. It champions not just love, but empathy, observation, and emotional intelligence.
At a time when music often shies away from emotional depth, this song dares to say what many think: you deserve better—and someone out there sees that.
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