Song Meaning
Nellie McKay's collaboration with k.d. lang, "We Had It Right," operates as a defiant, almost whimsical rebuke of societal gossip. The song's core message revolves around the power of personal truth in the face of external judgment. The repeated assertion, "Rumor was wrong, we were right," functions as both a shield and a declaration. It suggests a relationship, likely romantic, under intense public scrutiny, where outside perceptions clash violently with the lived experience of the individuals involved. The "rumor" itself remains undefined, allowing listeners to project their own experiences of societal disapproval onto the narrative. The brilliance lies in the ambiguity; the song isn't about a specific scandal but the universal experience of having one's reality distorted by public opinion.
Musically, the airy, almost vaudevillian arrangement reinforces the lyrical theme. The "Oh ho ho" interludes, delivered with a knowing wink, add a layer of playful defiance. It's as if McKay and lang are acknowledging the absurdity of the situation, choosing to find humor in the face of negativity. The image of being "swathed in all white as if a dove" suggests purity and innocence, further contrasting with the potentially salacious nature of the rumors swirling around them. This deliberate juxtaposition highlights the disconnect between appearance and reality, underscoring the song's central argument: that external narratives often fail to capture the truth of lived experience.
Ultimately, "We Had It Right" is a celebration of self-knowledge and resilience. It's an anthem for anyone who has ever felt misunderstood or misrepresented. The simple, repetitive structure of the lyrics, particularly the mantra-like repetition of "Rumor had it wrong," serves to reinforce the idea that truth, when grounded in personal conviction, can withstand the onslaught of public opinion. Nellie McKay and k.d. lang aren't just singing about their own experience; they're offering a broader message of empowerment, urging listeners to trust their own hearts and to disregard the noise of external judgment. The song's meaning lies in its ability to connect with the listener's own battles against the 'rumors' in their lives.
