"We Could Have Been" is a heartfelt ballad by Vince Gill that explores the theme of missed opportunities and the lingering feelings of what could have been in a past relationship. The song portrays a sense of nostalgia and longing as the narrator reflects on a person from their past whom they still hold special memories of. The lyrics convey a sense of curiosity about the path the other person's life took after their separation. The narrator wonders if the person achieved great success in changing the world or if they simply played along with the games of life. It implies that they were once deeply connected, but circumstances pulled them apart. The lyrics also suggest that the narrator regrets not having a proper goodbye or closure with this person. They ponder over the reasons behind not reaching out to reconnect, perhaps out of fear of what the response might be or uncertainty about how to navigate the conversation. Overall, the song expresses a mixture of nostalgia, regret, and curiosity about what could have been if the relationship had continued. It reflects on the fleeting nature of past connections and the importance of cherishing and appreciating the people who come into our lives, even if the timing or circumstances prevent things from working out.
