If I Knew

About this song

The song is said to be especially inspired by Sam Cooke's "Bring It On Home To Me". It shares a similar chord progression, a double-tracked lead vocal and a call-and-response "Now, baby" section with that track.

What it's about

The song is about a former lover who wanted him back, and the narrator reflects that he would have acted differently had he known. It is safe to assume the things he did involved cheating and ending the relationship.

Fun facts

• Written by Bruno Mars and The Smeezingtons.
• Produced by The Smeezingtons.