The song was released on May 19, 2014, via Star Trak Entertainment and Interscope Records as the only single from the album Paula.

[2][3] The song was written as an attempt to reconcile with his wife, actress Paula Patton, whom he had separated from in February 2014.

[4] Having been together in a relationship since they were teenagers and then marrying in 2005, Thicke made various public attempts to reconcile with his wife, including dedicating concert performances to her.

Days before the awards ceremony, TMZ obtained a copy of the lyrics that seemingly addressed his separation and his desire to get back with Patton.

[8] The single "Get Her Back" was released on May 19, 2014,[1] and Thicke debuted the song that day at the Billboard Music Awards.

The video simultaneously shows a series of text messages seemingly between Thicke and his estranged wife Paula, some of which include You drink too much, I wrote a whole album about you, I hate myself, You embarrassed me, and You're reckless.