Song Lyrics & Details

Knew Better Part Two

by Ariana Grande

Dive into Ariana Grande's 'Knew Better Part Two' lyrics, an empowering anthem about self-worth, moving on from a toxic relationship, and finding new confidence. Discover the sassy message of independence.

Release Year	2016
Language	English
Label	Republic Records
Genres	Rap, R&B, Pop, Electronic Trap, Trip-Hop, Pop Rap, House
Writers	Ariana Grande, Michael Foster, Mr. Franks, TBHits, Victoria Monét
Producers	Michael Foster, Mr. Franks, TBHits
Mood	Confident, Empowering, Sassy, Assertive
Themes	Self-worth, Moving on, Independence, Relationship struggles, Confidence

Lyrics

"Knew Better Part Two" Lyrics

[Verse 1] Say you could turn me on Boy, but that's about it You can say what you wanna But I wouldn't believe it You could write all them songs That's the game that you play Tryna right all them wrongs But you can't make me stay [Pre-Chorus] 'Cause I, see right through you, boy And I, I (Feelin' you no more) I ain't feelin' you no more, I ain't feelin' you no more [Chorus] If you knew better Boy, you would do better Can't nobody love you like I do Baby, I could do better Boy, if you knew better You would do better Baby, if you love me like I love you Maybe we could be together [Post-Chorus] 'Cause ain't nobody like me, ain't nobody like me Ain't nobody like me, ain't nobody like me Ain't nobody like me Ain't nobody like me (Ayy) Ain't nobody like me Ain't nobody like me Ain't nobody like me Ain't nobody like me, baby [Verse 2] Make a mistake, you better learn from it Play with tea, you get burned from it My daddy always told me, "If he makes you cry He ain't the one, you better run from him" He used to get to me mentally I don't fuck with your energy If you knew better, you would do better But you don't know shit, so I'll do better Got a new 'do, and some new shoes Just to go with my new boo Lovin' me like he used to And I ain't even worried 'bout it this time (Shit) I know he gon' be the one to treat me just right (Just right) Never had a motherfucker this tight (Sheesh) So baby, this is what your soulmate look like I look good, right? [Chorus] If you knew better Boy, you would do better (Hey) Can't nobody love you like I do Baby, I could do better Boy, if you knew better (Boy, if you knew) You would do better Baby, if you love me like I love you Maybe we could be together [Post-Chorus] 'Cause ain't nobody like me, ain't nobody like me Ain't nobody like me, ain't nobody like me Ain't nobody like me (Oh) Ain't nobody like me (Nobody like me) Ain't nobody like me (Sheesh) Ain't nobody like me (Nobody like me) Ain't nobody like me Ain't nobody like me, baby (Nuh-uh) [Outro] Nobody like me, hmm, ain't nobody like me (Me) Ain't nobody like me, ayy

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Knew Better Part Two by Ariana Grande

What's the relationship between "Knew Better Part Two" and "Knew Better / Forever Boy"?

"Knew Better Part Two" is a remix or an updated, extended version of the "Knew Better" segment from Ariana Grande's 2016 album track, "Knew Better / Forever Boy." This standalone version features a new, assertive rap verse and a slightly altered production, giving it a more confident and independent feel compared to its album counterpart.

Who is the song generally understood to be about?

While Ariana Grande rarely explicitly names individuals in her songs, "Knew Better Part Two" is widely speculated by fans to be about her former relationship with rapper Mac Miller. Lyrics like "Got a new 'do, and some new shoes / Just to go with my new boo" and the overall themes of moving on and finding someone better are often cited as evidence, especially considering her relationship with Miller became public around the time of the song's release.

What's the significance of the rap verse in the song?

The rap verse is a standout moment in "Knew Better Part Two," marking one of Ariana Grande's most prominent forays into rapping. It's significant because it showcases a more aggressive, confident, and assertive side of her artistry, deviating from her typical pop/R&B vocal style. Fans widely praised this unexpected display of lyrical prowess and attitude.

What does the phrase "If you knew better, boy, you would do better" mean?

This phrase is a central theme of the song and implies that the subject of the song (the ex-lover) is making poor choices or treating Ariana badly due to a lack of understanding or maturity. If he truly "knew better" – understood her worth, the value of their relationship, or how to treat a partner – he would "do better" by changing his behavior and actions. It's a statement of disappointment and a challenge for him to grow.

What mood or message is Ariana conveying with "Knew Better Part Two"?

Ariana Grande is conveying a powerful message of self-worth, independence, and moving on. The mood is confident, empowering, and sassy. She asserts her value, acknowledges past relationship struggles, and declares that she's found a better situation, emphasizing that she won't settle for less than she deserves.

Are there any specific personal references or advice shared in the lyrics?

Yes, there's a poignant personal reference in the line, "My daddy always told me, 'If he makes you cry / He ain't the one, you better run from him.'" This line offers a piece of fatherly advice that Ariana incorporates into her narrative of moving on from a toxic relationship, grounding the song's empowering message in a relatable personal experience.

Glossary

Words & Phrases Explained

Unusual words, slang, and references in this song

Play with tea, you get burned from it

An idiom meaning that if you engage in risky or potentially harmful situations (like gossip, emotional games, or playing with fire), you are likely to suffer negative consequences.

In context: Ariana uses this metaphor to warn her ex that his manipulative behavior or games will ultimately backfire on him, reinforcing her decision to leave.

New 'do

Slang for a new hairstyle. 'Do' is a shortened form of 'hairdo.'

In context: Used in the line "Got a new 'do, and some new shoes / Just to go with my new boo," it signifies a fresh start and a change in appearance often associated with moving on from a past relationship.

New boo

Slang for a new boyfriend, girlfriend, or romantic partner. 'Boo' is a term of endearment.

In context: In "Just to go with my new boo," this line directly contrasts her new, positive relationship with the old, problematic one, highlighting her happiness in moving forward.

Tight

(Slang) Excellent, impressive, cool, or very good.

In context: In "Never had a motherfucker this tight," Ariana uses 'tight' to describe her new partner as exceptionally good, satisfying, and fulfilling, indicating a significant upgrade from her previous relationship.

Ain't nobody like me

A confident and assertive declaration meaning 'there is no one like me' or 'I am unique and irreplaceable.'

In context: This phrase is repeated throughout the chorus, serving as Ariana's powerful assertion of her self-worth and individuality, letting her ex know that he lost someone truly special.

Background

Behind the Song

"Knew Better Part Two" emerged as a fan-favorite bonus track, a reimagining of "Knew Better / Forever Boy" from Ariana Grande's critically acclaimed 2016 album, Dangerous Woman. While the original track was a two-part medley, Part Two took on a life of its own, released as a standalone piece that allowed Ariana to explore a more assertive and independent narrative. Co-written with frequent collaborators Michael Foster, Mr. Franks, TBHits, and Victoria Monét, the song's creation was a collaborative effort that captured a distinct shift in tone and lyrical focus from its predecessor, recorded at Vietom Studios.

Musically, "Knew Better Part Two" stands out with its dynamic blend of R&B, Pop, Electronic Trap, and Pop Rap elements, showcasing Ariana's versatility beyond her signature vocal acrobatics. The track is particularly notable for its inclusion of a powerful, confident rap verse, a rare and celebrated moment for the artist. Lyrically, the song is a bold declaration of self-worth and moving on, inspired by the universal experience of relationship struggles and the empowerment found in realizing one deserves better. It channels themes of independence and confidence, offering a sassy retort to a former lover who failed to appreciate her.

Fun Facts

"Knew Better Part Two" is a re-worked, extended version of the "Knew Better" section from the *Dangerous Woman* album track "Knew Better / Forever Boy."
The song features one of Ariana Grande's most prominent and acclaimed rap verses, surprising many fans with her lyrical flow and assertive delivery.
It was initially released as a bonus track on the Japanese deluxe edition of *Dangerous Woman* and later gained significant traction online.
Fans widely interpret the lyrics, particularly the "new boo" lines, as a reference to her relationship with Mac Miller, which became public around the song's release.
The line "My daddy always told me, 'If he makes you cry / He ain't the one, you better run from him'" offers a rare glimpse into personal advice Ariana received.

Controversy & Trivia

Interesting Facts & Controversy

"Knew Better Part Two" quickly became a fan phenomenon, largely due to its unexpected and fierce rap verse, which many hailed as a "diss track" moment from Ariana. This particular section, where she asserts her newfound independence and happiness, resonated deeply with listeners who appreciated her unfiltered honesty and swagger. The line "I look good, right?" delivered with an undeniable confidence, became an iconic moment, solidifying the song's place as an anthem for self-empowerment and moving forward from a problematic relationship.

The song sparked considerable discussion and speculation among fans regarding its subject matter, with many believing the lyrics, particularly the references to a "new boo" and moving on, pointed towards her highly publicized relationship with rapper Mac Miller, which began around the time of the song's release. This added a layer of personal intrigue, allowing listeners to connect the song's narrative directly to Ariana's real-life experiences, further amplifying its emotional impact and relatability. It showcases Ariana's ability to transform personal experiences into universally understood anthems of strength.

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