"Love Shoulda Brought You Home" by Toni Braxton explores the disappointment and betrayal experienced in a romantic relationship. The song addresses the speaker's frustration with their partner's lack of commitment and sincerity.

In the first verse, the speaker questions whether they should even listen or try to understand their partner's excuses, as they have been repeatedly deceived. The relationship is built on a foundation of lies, and the partner's words no longer have any credibility. The speaker challenges their partner's understanding of love, suggesting that they don't truly comprehend its meaning.

The chorus emphasizes the disappointment and longing for the partner's presence. The speaker believes that if their partner truly cared for them, love would have brought them home, indicating physical and emotional closeness. The repetition of the line "You shoulda been with me, shoulda been right by my side" amplifies the sense of abandonment.

In the second verse, the speaker acknowledges that they were initially blinded by love and unable to see past their partner's charming facade. However, they have now awakened to the reality of the situation. A metaphorical "wake-up call" has revealed their partner's true nature and lack of concern. The speaker dismisses their partner's claim that someone else doesn't mean anything, as their actions speak louder than words. The speaker no longer desires their partner's type of love, recognizing it as insincere and insufficient for their needs.

The bridge raises questions about the nature of love and the speaker's doubts about their partner's intentions. The lyrics convey the frustration with the perception that some men view love as temporary rather than long-lasting. The speaker questions whether their partner is deserving of trust and expresses skepticism that they will always be present.

Overall, "Love Shoulda Brought You Home" communicates the speaker's disappointment and realization that their partner's love was not genuine. The song exposes the pain caused by their partner's lack of commitment and attempts to convey the speaker's longing for a sincere and lasting love.