The song "I Hope You Miss Me" by Walker Hayes tells the story of a person who is sending well wishes to someone they care about who has moved to Los Angeles. The lyrics express the hope that the person made it to their destination safely and that their car didn't break down. The song also mentions Joshua Tree and emphasizes that small towns are not foolish, indicating that the singer has always known that the person they are addressing would leave for bigger opportunities. The song conveys a mixture of longing and happiness for the person's new life in Los Angeles. The singer hopes that the person is living near the ocean, just as they always wanted, and that they are enjoying their time in the city of angels. The line "You want the part, baby, go get it" suggests that the person is pursuing a career in Hollywood, and the singer eagerly awaits seeing their name in film credits. Despite the happiness for the person's new life, there is a hint of selfishness in the lyrics. The singer admits that they hope the person misses them, indicating that they still have strong feelings for them and want them to think of them even in their new life. This feeling of selfish longing is repeated throughout the song. The lyrics also mention the possibility of the person feeling homesick and finding companionship while learning lines for their acting career. There is even a playful mention of the person running into their celebrity crush, Jennifer Lopez, on Rodeo Drive, and hoping she lives up to their expectations. The song ends with a prediction that the person will achieve success in Hollywood and receive a star on Hollywood Boulevard. The singer mentions that they called this moment while sitting on the hood of their car, possibly indicating a moment of reflection and shared dreams before the person left for Los Angeles. Overall, "I Hope You Miss Me" is a heartfelt and bittersweet song that captures the mixed emotions of letting someone go while still wishing them the best. There is the hope for the person's success and happiness, but also the underlying desire for them to remember and miss the person singing the song.
