We say that we can be friends, but, hey, let’s be honest
There ain’t really no such thing as gin and platonic
One is gonna turn into two is gonna turn into
You and me at a quarter to three with four shoes under the bed
Yeah, we know it’s headed to
I really shouldn’t drink around you
It’s a risk; it’s a gamble
A little more than I can handle
Just a touch of a buzz is enough to get me thinkin’ things
I really shouldn’t think about you
We end up on a fast track
Gettin’ back to where we left the past at
You’d think I woulda learned my lesson by now, but I never do
I really shouldn’t drink around you
Yeah, I know what’s gonna happen if we order another shot
‘Cause there ain’t any way to muster up the strength that I haven’t got
Wine is gonna turn into ‘Why not?’ and turn into lots of burning the lines and in no time, we’re doin’ things friends don’t do
I really shouldn’t drink around you
It’s a risk; it’s a gamble
A little more than I can handle
Just a touch of a buzz is enough to get me thinkin’ things
I really shouldn’t think about you
We end up on a fast track
Gettin’ back to where we left the past at
You’d think I woulda learned my lesson by now, but I never do
I really shouldn’t drink around you
We say that we can be friends, but, hey, let’s be honest
There ain’t really no such thing as gin and platonic
I really shouldn’t drink around you
It’s a risk; it’s a gamble
A little more than I can handle
Just a touch of a buzz is enough to get me thinkin’ things
I really shouldn’t think about you
We end up on a fast track
Gettin’ back to where we left the past at
You’d think I woulda learned my lesson by now, but I never do
I really shouldn’t drink around you
No, I really shouldn’t drink around you
‘Cause one is gonna turn into two is gonna turn into
You and me at a quarter to three with four shoes under the bed
Yeah, we know where it’s headed to
Wine is gonna turn into ‘Why not?’ and turn into lots of burning the lines and in no time, doin’ things friends don’t do
I really shouldn’t drink around you
The Temptation of Old Flames
In “I Really Shouldn’t Drink Around You,” Blake Shelton dives into the complexities of trying to stay friends with someone you have undeniable chemistry with. The lyrics cleverly play with the idea that alcohol lowers inhibitions, making it nearly impossible to maintain platonic boundaries. With lines like “there ain’t really no such thing as gin and platonic,” Shelton brings humor and relatability, painting a picture of two people who can’t resist slipping back into old habits when drinks are involved.
When Friendship Crosses the Line
The song unfolds as a confession of self-awareness. Despite good intentions, the narrator admits that even a “touch of a buzz” leads to reliving the past. The narrative moves quickly from casual drinks to rekindled passion, highlighting how easily blurred lines can become when emotions and memories are involved. The repetition of the title phrase serves as both a warning and a resigned acceptance of an irresistible connection.
Song Credits
Artist: Blake Shelton
Songwriters: Rodney Clawson, Chris Tompkins
Release Year: 2016
Label: Warner Bros. Nashville