Screw You

Album: A Million Lights (2012)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • It was originally believed this kiss off song is about Cheryl's ex two-timing husband Ashley Cole, but young top liner Megan Nicole and British producer Dan "HyGrade" Traynor had a different motivation. Their inspiration came from seeing the singer sticking her middle finger up at the paparazzi whilst attending a London party.
  • When Cheryl turned up at the studio to record the song she was intoxicated. The English songstress explained to The Daily Mirror, "I went in to record it hung over. I never do that. I'm not a big drinker but I was still drunk when I woke up."
  • The song features Wretch 32, whom HyGrade has also produced for. The British rapper was approached to appear on the song as Cheryl was a fan of his 2011 album Black and White. Wretch discussed the collaboration with MTV News UK saying: "We've recorded a record that's very edgy, it's very cool. She smashes it and hopefully I've smashed it too but I can't say that as that would be big-headed of me."
  • Despite the songwriter's denials that the song is about Ashley Cole, they do reference the England full back's position. One of the lyrics finds Cheryl proclaiming, "And now I'm left back feeling kinda cold."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Tom Johnston from The Doobie Brothers

Tom Johnston from The Doobie BrothersSongwriter Interviews

The Doobies guitarist and lead singer, Tom wrote the classics "Listen To The Music," "Long Train Runnin'" and "China Grove."

Rickie Lee Jones

Rickie Lee JonesSongwriter Interviews

Rickie Lee Jones on songwriting, social media, and how she's handling Trump.

Jon Anderson of Yes

Jon Anderson of YesSongwriter Interviews

From the lake in "Roundabout" to Sister Bluebird in "Starship Trooper," Jon Anderson talks about how nature and spirituality play into his lyrics for Yes.

Lori McKenna

Lori McKennaSongwriter Interviews

Lori's songs have been recorded by Faith Hill and Sara Evans. She's performed on the CMAs and on Oprah. She also has five kids.

Chris Frantz - "Genius of Love"

Chris Frantz - "Genius of Love"They're Playing My Song

Chris and his wife Tina were the rhythm section for Talking Heads when they formed The Tom Tom Club. "Genius of Love" was their blockbuster, but David Byrne only mentioned it once.

Richard Butler of The Psychedelic Furs

Richard Butler of The Psychedelic FursSongwriter Interviews

Psychedelic Furs lead singer Richard Butler talks about their first album since 1991 and explains what's really going on in "Pretty In Pink."