Alfie by Lily Allen
From her debut album “Alright, Still” released in 2006, “Alfie” is one of the most personal songs for Lily Allen. Co-written with Greg Kurstin, the track is a playful yet somewhat critical look at her younger brother Alfie Allen’s laid-back lifestyle during his teenage years. The lyrics describe her attempts to get her lethargic brother out of bed and encourage him to be more proactive with his life.
You can view the lyrics, alternate interprations and sheet music for Lily Allen's Alfie at Lyrics.org.
While the song has a light-hearted tone, it also touches on the frustrations of seeing a loved one not reaching their potential. Many listeners found the song relatable, as it encapsulated the typical dynamics and occasional tensions between siblings.
Fun fact: Alfie Allen, the subject of the song, went on to become a successful actor, most notably for his role as Theon Greyjoy in the TV series “Game of Thrones.” Lily has remarked in interviews about how her brother’s reaction to the song was initially one of embarrassment but later took it in good stride.