It was the first single released from lang's third studio album, All You Can Eat (1995), by Warner Bros. on 18 September 1995.

[2] In his review of All You Can Eat, Steve Baltin from Cash Box wrote, "The disc kicks off with the erudite 'If I Were You', a song that more adventurous radio programmers will find friendly.

"[3] Dave Jennings from Melody Maker felt "she's got one of the most gorgeous and achingly sensual voices currently being committed to audio tape".

He added, "'If I Were You' is, I guess, probably best described as an affectionate envy song; kd wishing that it was possible for her to be a less contentious figure, so that she could get more done.

[5] Another NME editor, Angela Lewis, commented, "As ever, the stretch-limousine smooth Lang voice puts one in mind of chintzy cocktail parties where 'close' pals like Cindy Crawford, David Geffen and Madonna turn up, on the spur of the moment, like.