> : The lyrics are framed as a series of desperate questions (e.g., "What do I do to make you want me?") that reflect a sense of defeat and unrequited love. Chart Performance
: Unlike most of their collaborations where Taupin wrote lyrics first, Elton John composed the melody and most of the first line ("What have I got to do to make you love me") on the piano before Taupin finished the lyrics.
The song is a centered on a romantic relationship that is beyond repair.
The song was a significant commercial success in both its original and duet forms:
: Written by Elton John and his long-time lyricist Bernie Taupin , the song was the lead single from John’s 11th studio album, Blue Moves .
