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Danielle Bradbery’s song, “Potential,” is a powerful ballad that delves into the complex emotions of being in love with someone’s potential rather than who they currently are. Released on November 1, 2016, as part of her album “I Don’t Believe We’ve Met,” the song showcases Bradbery’s talent as a singer and songwriter.

Listening to this song, I am reminded of the times when I have been in a similar situation, where I see the potential in someone and hope that they will fulfill it. It is a delicate balance between wanting to support and believe in someone, while also acknowledging the reality of who they currently are. The lyrics of “Potential” beautifully capture this internal struggle.

The first verse begins with the acknowledgment that if the person just put in a little more effort, they could be perfect. There is a sense of hope and belief that their potential is within reach. The pre-chorus, however, introduces a hint of doubt. Bradbery sings about telling herself that the person will get there, but the more they fail to do so, the less blind she becomes. This line resonates with anyone who has experienced disappointment and the gradual erosion of hope.

The chorus is the pinnacle of the song’s message. Bradbery admits that she is not in love with the person themselves but rather with their potential. It is a heartbreaking realization that love alone is not enough to sustain a relationship when the other person does not meet the expectations set by their potential.

In the second verse, Bradbery describes the cycle of frustration and temporary relief. The person shows up when she is fed up, acting as if everything is perfect between them. The line “A shot of stronger keeps me longer” implies that she continues to hold on because she believes there is still hope, even though deep down, she questions if it is worth it.

The bridge of the song provides a moment of clarity. Bradbery acknowledges that the person is who they are, and while it may be alright, it is not right for her. The phrase “Maybe one day, but it’s too late” suggests that the person’s potential may be realized in the future, but it won’t happen in time for their relationship. It is a bittersweet realization, filled with both longing and acceptance.

The final chorus reinforces the sentiment that Bradbery is not in love with the person, but rather with their potential. The repetition of this line emphasizes the central theme of the song, driving home the heartbreak that comes with unfulfilled expectations.

As a listener, “Potential” resonates with me on a personal level. It reminds me of past relationships where I held onto hope that someone would change or fulfill their potential. It is a delicate balance between believing in someone and realizing that sometimes our hopes and expectations are not aligned with reality.

Ultimately, “Potential” serves as a poignant reminder that love alone cannot sustain a relationship if it is built upon the foundation of unfulfilled potential. It is a testament to the complexity of human emotions and the importance of aligning expectations with reality.

Through her heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals, Danielle Bradbery captures the essence of the song’s meaning. “Potential” is a song that speaks to anyone who has ever loved someone’s potential, even when it becomes clear that it may never be fully realized.