Weakness

About

Weakness appears on Under the Radar Vol. 2 and was written by Robbie Williams and Gary Barlow, with production by Steve Power. The song dates from sessions before Take the Crown, when Williams and Barlow briefly considered recording a joint album. Although that project did not materialise, Weakness remained as one of their most melodic and good-humoured collaborations.

Williams described the song as a “Dick Van Dyke version” of his relationship with his wife, Ayda Field, capturing domestic affection through playful wordplay. The title phrase, “My weakness is strong,” was borrowed from a comedy special that had made him laugh, repurposed here as an expression of devotion. The lyric portrays love as a joyful surrender, with lines such as “My weakness gets stronger every day” and “Went around the world in eighty lovers, then they sent you.”

Musically, Weakness blends pop and country influences, driven by acoustic guitar, brushed drums and cheerful harmonies. The arrangement recalls classic Barlow ballads while retaining Williams’ humour and warmth. Its upbeat tone and subtle swing give it the feel of a lighthearted love song, balancing sincerity with a wink.

“My weakness gets stronger every day. My weakness and my love for my wife get stronger. I’m full speed into letting my weakness overwhelm me, because it feels like a beautiful thing.”Robbie Williams

Although not released as a single, Weakness was praised by fans for its charm and the evident chemistry between Williams and Barlow as writers. It stands as a reminder of the creative rapport that first reunited them for Shame in 2010 and of Williams’ ability to express affection with warmth, wit and melodic grace.