Chris Stapleton’s You Should Probably Leave: A Haunting Tug-of-War
Chris Stapleton’s “You Should Probably Leave” embodies the bittersweet pull of desire and restraint, capturing the raw complexity of an on-again, off-again relationship. Released in 2021 as the third single from his Starting Over album, the song reveals Stapleton’s mastery of storytelling, where every note and lyric holds an emotional weight.
The song, co-written with Ashley Gorley and Chris DuBois, is a slow-burning ballad that revolves around two lovers who find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other despite knowing that their reunion will inevitably lead to heartbreak. Stapleton’s gritty, soulful voice perfectly conveys the tension of wanting to stay in the moment yet feeling the weight of consequences looming just beyond it. The narrative unfolds like a conversation, as tender honesty collides with the undeniable chemistry that keeps pulling them back together.
Musically, “You Should Probably Leave” is understated yet evocative. The minimal arrangement, featuring soft guitar strums and subtle percussion, creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing Stapleton’s voice to take center stage. The production, guided by Stapleton and frequent collaborator Dave Cobb, enhances the song’s raw and vulnerable essence without overshadowing its lyrical depth.
Though the song was officially released in 2021, it had been simmering in Stapleton’s repertoire since 2014, occasionally performed on small stages alongside his wife and musical partner, Morgane. This long gestation only adds to its richness, as if the song matured alongside the artist, gaining depth and poignancy over time.
“You Should Probably Leave” is a testament to Stapleton’s ability to blend emotional honesty with musical craftsmanship. It’s a story as old as time—two people caught in a cycle of love and longing—yet Stapleton breathes new life into it, making it feel achingly personal and universally relatable. Whether it’s the soulful delivery, the haunting melody, or the poignant narrative, the song lingers long after it ends, a quiet reminder of love’s intoxicating and inevitable complications.