It was released independently as a single through Cook's imprint Analog Heart Music on May 4, 2012, following his departure from RCA Records.

"[1] Its lyrics describe a breakup and moving on from a relationship that is no longer healthy, which, given the timing of its release, has led critics to speculate that the song refers to Cook's split from his record label.

"[5][6] "The Last Song I'll Write for You" was written by Cook, Andy Skib, and Daniel James, and was produced by John Fields.

[7] It was released to digital retailers on May 4, 2012 before Cook premiered the song on the May 10, 2012 episode of the eleventh season of American Idol.

[2][8] The single sold 15,000 copies in its first week of release,[9] debuting and peaking at number 45 on the Billboard Pop Digital Songs chart.