Skillet’s ‘It’s Not Me, It’s You,’ the Perfect Breakup Song – Song Review

By Anne Erickson, Courtesy Photo

Hooky songwriting and firm arrangements make up Skillet’s latest single

Hard rock band Skillet’s latest album, Awake, has been out is over 100 weeks, but it’s not slowing down one bit. The collection has scored a third RIAA Gold certified No. 1 active rock single in, “Awake and Alive,” and the band’s hoping to tally a fourth with their new track, “It’s Not Me, It’s You.” They’re well on the way when it comes to promotion, as the band is on tour all summer and just booked for Los Angeles’ famed Epicenter Rock Festival.

Crispy riffs open the track, setting the stage for hooky songwriting to follow. The track’s firm arrangements and crunching but melodic sound are exemplary alt-metal, but the catchy beats and melodies hint at a poppier experience.

Frontman John Cooper’s growl chimes in after a round of early riffs: “Let’s get the story straight / You were a poison / You flooded through my veins / You left me broken.”

Thematically based around very relatable feelings of aversion and trial, “It’s Not Me, It’s You” is possibly the best breakup song imaginable. As the chorus shatters into the track, Cooper dramatically cries out with frustration and an accusation: “It’s not me it’s you/ Always has been you / All the lies and stupid things you say and do / It’s you / It’s not me it’s you.”

For those who know and love Skillet, there’s no reason that fans of the band shouldn’t embrace this album as the fulfilling listen that it is. As the memorable chords close out, it’s clear “It’s Not Me, It’s You” plays as a proficient step in the right direction to build yet another Skillet rock hit.

Ink Rating: 4 out of 5 Splatters

Listen to Skillet’s track, “It’s Not Me It’s You,” below.

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Anne Erickson

Meet the expert - Author, writer and editor Anne Erickson is a Detroit-based music reporter and radio host. She has written for the USA Today Network, Consequence.net, Blabbermouth.net, Loudwire.com and many more. Anne holds a master's degree from Michigan State University. Contact Anne at anne@audioinkradio.com.