PAT BENATAR - TREAT ME RIGHT

Released: December 29, 1980

Charts:  US: #18   

"Treat Me Right" is a song from the album “Crimes of Passion”, produced by Keith Olsen and written by Doug Lubahn and Pat Benatar. Released as the third single from the album, it became another hit for Benatar, peaking at #18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and reaching #10 on the Cash Box Top 100. The song also charted at #31 on the U.S. Mainstream Rock chart and achieved success in Canada, peaking at #12 and ending up as the 76th biggest hit of 1981.

"Treat Me Right" is a powerful anthem about self-respect and the realization that one deserves better in a relationship. The song delves into the frustration of being in a tumultuous, inconsistent relationship, and captures the narrator's frustration with a partner's inconsistent and indecisive behavior, leading to emotional exhaustion. The lyrics portray a narrator dealing with a partner who sends mixed signals, alternating between pushing the narrator away and asking them to return. The repeated line, "One of these days, you're gonna reach out and find the one that you count on has left you behind," signals a turning point where the narrator recognizes their own worth and begins to consider leaving the relationship.

The partner's desire for both a romantic and friendly relationship is contradicted by their lack of commitment and sincerity, leaving the narrator feeling confused and emotionally drained. As the song progresses, the narrator reaches a point of impatience and weariness, demanding respect and clarity in the relationship. The plea to "treat me right" becomes a demand for change, as the narrator no longer wishes to be taken for granted. They emphasize that the partner's inability to see the harm they're causing is leading to the deterioration of the relationship. In the end, the narrator declares their refusal to continue being mistreated and makes a firm stand for respect, aiming to break free from the emotional turmoil. This empowerment anthem highlights the importance of standing up for one's self-worth and seeking a healthier relationship dynamic.