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

Andy McClusky of OMD

Andy McClusky of OMDSongwriter Interviews

Known in America for the hit "If You Leave," OMD is a huge influence on modern electronic music.

Does Jimmy Page Worship The Devil? A Look at Satanism in Rock

Does Jimmy Page Worship The Devil? A Look at Satanism in RockSong Writing

We ring the Hell's Bells to see what songs and rockers are sincere in their Satanism, and how much of it is an act.

Wherefore Art Thou Romeo Lyric

Wherefore Art Thou Romeo LyricMusic Quiz

In this quiz, spot the artist who put Romeo into a song lyric.

Sending Out An SOS - Distress Signals In Songs

Sending Out An SOS - Distress Signals In SongsSong Writing

Songs where something goes horribly wrong (literally or metaphorically), and help is needed right away.

Ben Kowalewicz of Billy Talent

Ben Kowalewicz of Billy TalentSongwriter Interviews

The frontman for one of Canada's most well-known punk rock bands talks about his Eddie Vedder encounter, Billy Talent's new album, and the importance of rock and roll.

Rufus Wainwright

Rufus WainwrightSongwriter Interviews

Rufus Wainwright on "Hallelujah," his album Unfollow The Rules, and getting into his "lyric trance" on 12-hour walks.