"Just Like Always" is a song by Joe Cocker that revolves around the themes of nostalgia, longing, and unrequited love. The lyrics describe the narrator reminiscing about a past relationship and the feelings that still linger despite the passage of time. The song begins by acknowledging a specific day that reminds the narrator of a night spent with their partner when they were both carefree and adventurous. They wonder if their former love is also reminiscing and cherishing those memories. Throughout the song, the narrator frequently thinks about their ex-lover and imagines their face, smiling and surrounded by the beauty of nature. The mention of their "red river" hair symbolizes the deep connection and possessiveness the narrator feels towards their former partner. It suggests their desire to keep them as their own, even though they are no longer together. The lyrics briefly question the possibility of moving on and living a life without regret, but the narrator acknowledges that they haven't reached that point yet. There is a hint of bitterness towards their former love, who seems unaffected by the breakup, as the narrator wonders if love truly lasts forever. The metaphor of the ocean missing the sunset signifies the longing and emptiness the narrator feels without their ex-partner. The song shifts to the present as the narrator confesses to still looking for their former love every time they pass their street but knowing deep down that they won't see them. Despite this longing, they acknowledge that their former love won't reach out to them. Nevertheless, the narrator affirms their enduring love for their ex-partner, saying "But I love you anyway, just like always." In summary, "Just Like Always" explores the bittersweet emotions and longing for a past love that the narrator experiences. It reflects on the memories and regrets associated with the relationship and expresses the lingering affection the narrator still holds, even though they understand that their former love has moved on.
