About
She’s the One was written by Karl Wallinger of World Party and originally released on that group’s 1997 album Egyptology. Robbie Williams recorded his version for I've Been Expecting You, with production by Guy Chambers and Steve Power. Released as a double A-side with It’s Only Us on 8 November 1999, it became Williams’ second UK number one and won Best British Single and Best Video at the 2000 Brit Awards.
Although the song was a cover, Williams made it central to his live repertoire, often introducing it as one of his best ballads. Wallinger later expressed resentment over the cover’s success, noting that he had not been informed of the re-recording, which used members of his own touring band. Despite this tension, Williams’ interpretation was widely praised for its emotive delivery and rich arrangement, which closely followed the original while enhancing its orchestral elements.
It was a song that meant a lot to me when I came out of rehab. I wanted to sing it and for it to be heard by a lot of people.Robbie Williams
The video, directed by Dom & Nic, features Williams as an ice skater competing despite injury, a metaphor for resilience and grace under pressure. Filmed at Alexandra Palace with commentary from broadcaster Barry Davies, the video’s mix of humour and poignancy contributed to its acclaim. She’s the One remains one of Williams’ most recognisable songs, emblematic of his ability to reinterpret others’ work with sincerity and mainstream appeal.
Lyrics
We were one we were free
And if there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
If there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
We were young we were wrong
We were fine all along
If there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
When you get to where you wanna go
And you know the things you wanna know
You're smiling
When you said what you wanna say
And you know the way you wanna play
You'll be so high you'll be flying
Though the sea will be strong
I know we'll carry on
'Cos if there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
If there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
When you get to where you wanna go
And you know the things you wanna know
You're smiling
When you said what you wanna say
And you know the way you wanna say it
You'll be so high you'll be flying
I was her she was me
We were one we were free
If there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
If there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
If there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
Yeah she's the one
If there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
She's the one
If there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
She's the one
If there's somebody calling me on
She's the one
She's the one
She's the one
Credits
-
Vocalist
Robbie Williams -
Songwriter
Karl Wallinger -
Original Artist
World Party