Songfacts®:

• In "I Guess," Lizzy McAlpine explores the awkward and confusing world of a budding romance. The song follows a first date, from dancing (even if their skills aren't top-notch) to sharing a meal and heading towards intimacy. McAlpine's lyrics capture the self-consciousness of wanting to impress a new flame, even if it means telling a little white lie.
  
  Despite the clumsiness, a spark ignites. The chorus reflects on the chaotic nature of finding love, wondering if happiness is just about timing and chasing desires that might never fully materialize. This uncertainty continues as McAlpine admits her own confusion, wishing things were easier and that she knew what she was doing.
• There's also a vulnerability and openness in "I Guess." McAlpine exposes her innocent side, daring to use the word "love" even though they barely know each other. This juxtaposition of uncertainty and emotional intensity reflects the beauty and awkwardness of new connections when something special can blossom even though there are no guarantees.
• "I Guess" samples the voices of McAlpine's fans from a 2023 Toronto tour stop.
• McAlpine released "I Guess" as the second single from her third album, Older, on March 13, 2024, the fourth anniversary of her father's death. Thirteen is significant for the singer. She even has the number tattooed on the back of her right hand between her wrist and thumb.
  
  "There was a song about my dad on the first album I put out, Give Me a Minute, McAlpine told Earmilk. "Strangely, he passed on March 13 of 2020, which was the craziest time in the world. Then the album came out on the 13th of August with 13 songs and the 13th song was about him. I did not plan any of that."
• Thematically, "I Know" aligns with the album's lead single, "Older," exploring the complexities of navigating young adulthood.
  
  "Older represents my growth over the past three years," said McAlpine. "It's been a challenging journey, but it's helped me define myself as a person and an artist. This album is the most honest and raw expression of who I am right now."
• McAlpine co-wrote "I Guess" with Mason Stoops, who also collaborated on the title track. She received additional help crafting the song's closing melody from Jeremy Most, guitarist and producer for singer-songwriter Emily King, and Ryan Lerman, who previously worked with her on "Reckless Driving" (2022).
• Lizzy McAlpine plays the guitar and the piano. The other musicians are:
  
  CARM: flugelhorn, French horn, trumpet
  Rob Moose: strings
  Michael Libramento: bass
  Aaron Sterling: drums
  Mason Stoops: guitar
  Jeremy Most: piano
  Taylor Mackall: piano
  
  CJ "CARM Camerieri has also played brass for Paul Simon and Bon Iver.