The energetic song 'Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor)' by Robert Palmer narrates the tale of someone entangled in a tough and intense love affair. Despite knowing that the relationship may not be the best for him, he is unable to help himself and turns to the metaphor of a doctor for help, acknowledging that no conventional remedy can cure his 'illness' of being in love.
The song begins with a tone of desperation on a 'hot summer night,' where palpable tension and an urgent need to connect with his love interest sets the stage. Robert Palmer's character has been captivated by his feelings and is in search of solace, which he hopes to find in his partner, willing her to 'soothe his head' and 'turn my blue heart to red.'
As the chorus bursts in with the repeated plea 'Doctor, doctor, gimme the news,' there's a clever interplay of love as an affliction, a sickness that has to be confronted, yet one for which there is no cure. The affirmation 'I've got a bad case of loving you' encapsulates the catch-22 the singer faces. His longing for his love interest is overwhelming, yet it's exactly this 'illness' that keeps him lively and impassioned.
Palmer's exploration of love's complexity continues through a declaration of understanding that appearances can be deceiving—'A pretty face don't make no pretty heart'—acknowledging what seems like naivety at first on his part is really a calculated risk. He challenges the stereotypical view of him as shy or naïve, asserting with confidence 'Mama, I ain't that kind of guy.'
Within the bridge of the song, the dynamic shifts to one where Palmer's character seems to relinquish control to his lover—'I know you like it, you like it on top'—hinting at a power exchange in the relationship. The emotional roller coaster is juxtaposed with an underlying acceptance of his situation, culminating in the recognition that his predicament is both painful and pleasurable—'I've got it bad and I got it good.'
"Doctor, doctor, gimme the news"
The use of 'Doctor, doctor' sets the theme of love as an ailment for which the protagonist seeks relief, a metaphor for the helplessness felt in the throes of love.
"A pretty face don't make no pretty heart"
This acknowledges the lessons learned about love's superficial qualities and that real affection comes from deeper than mere physical appearance.
"Smile of Judas on your lip"
This refers to the biblical betrayal by Judas, implying that there is a bittersweet or deceitful aspect to the love he's experiencing.
"I learned that, buddy, from the start"
It's a revelation of the singer's awareness and worldly wise attitude towards relationships and their complexities.