From the recording Phil Coyne and The Wayward Aces

A swinging rumba beat sets the scene for this tune about a relationship running out of steam. The chorus straightens up as Phil delivers the title line "You go first" and the misfortune arising from a impatience is revealed.

Lyrics

Oh, it seems I left you cryin
Say you feelin worse than dyin
Tho we know it had to end
Was up to me to say it then
And now right and wrong’s all blurred
But all I did was say the word

What was red hot, it cooled and died
All was left was to call time
Never worked from day one
Just never cut to be your one
We knew we’s running dry
So why get sore at me and cry?

CH
Oh baby no, you go first
Oh baby no, you go first
Don’t count on my outburst
Baby you go first
Desire to end our curse
Just left me feelin worst

Both of us heading that same way
Neither brave enough to say
Look at each one to end
No more time to try and mend
Hope one day you'll understand
& I won’t feel so god damned