“Bad Habit” by Steve Lacy is an emotional song about regret, missed opportunities, and the fear of expressing true feelings. The song tells the story of someone who realizes too late that the person they liked actually felt the same way. Steve Lacy uses the phrase “I wish I knew you wanted me” to show his wish that he had known about the other person’s feelings in time to do something about it. Much of the song centers on self-blame and disappointment. Steve admits to holding back his emotions because he doubted himself or worried about rejection.
The lyrics talk about how often people keep quiet due to fear of ruining what they already have or thinking the other person is “too good.” As the song goes on, Steve opens up about these internal struggles and the habit of biting his tongue instead of saying what he really feels. The song is relatable to anyone who has ever wished for a second chance or regretted not being braver with their feelings.
Lyrics: “Bad Habit” by Steve Lacy
I wish I knew, I wish I knew you wanted me
I wish I knew, I wish I knew you wanted me
What you, ooh, uh, what you do?
Made a move, could’ve made a move
If I knew I’d be with you
Is it too late to pursue?
I bite my tongue, it’s a bad habit
Kinda mad that I didn’t take a stab at it
Thought you were too good for me, my dear
Never gave me the time of day, my dear
It’s okay, things happen for reasons that I can’t ignore, yeah
I wish I knew, I wish I knew you wanted me
I wish I knew, I wish I knew you wanted me
Can I bite your tongue like my bad habit?
Would you mind if I tried to make a pass at it?
No, you’re not too good for me, my dear
Funny you come back to me, my dear
It’s okay, things happen for reasons that I can’t ignore, yeah
You can’t surprise a Gemini
I’m everywhere, I’m cross-eyed, and
Now that you’re back, I can’t decide
If I decide if you’re invited
You always knew the way to wow me
Mess around, get tongue-tied, and I turn it on
I make it rowdy
Then carry on, but I’m not hiding
You’re grabbing me hard ’cause you know what you found
Is biscuits, is gravy, babe
I knew you’d come back around
’Cause you know it’s biscuits, it’s gravy, babe
Let’s get lost, go crazy, babe
I know I’ll be in your heart ’til the end
You’ll miss me, don’t beg me, babe
Song Meaning Explained
“Bad Habit” is about looking back and regretting not making a move or being open with feelings. Steve Lacy captures the very real experience of seeing an opportunity pass by and only realizing its importance much later. The repeated wish “I wish I knew” echoes the frustration and sadness of missed chances. The song also speaks to the importance of confidence and the pain of letting fear stop you from forming a real connection. While the tune is catchy and upbeat, the message is honest and bittersweet. Steve Lacy’s story reminds us that it’s better to take a risk and speak up, rather than wonder “what if”.
