"When I Was Your Girl" received its exclusive first play on Ken Bruce's BBC Radio 2 show on 19 March 2013.

In a review of The Minutes, AllMusic stated: ""When I Was Your Girl" doesn't stray very far from her torch song dramatics, even with its electronic palette.

"[2] Digital Spy commented that the song "offers itself as a prime example of Moyet's knack for an anthemic, soft-rock serenade - provoking memories of her heyday hits.

"[3] PopMatters said: "The song shows off the delight of Moyet's hard vowels to great effect, and even has a Springsteen-esque instrumental break.

"[5] Record Collector stated: "The power of her voice is a constant, though, best heard on the Abba-like theatricality of "When I Was Your Girl" and the candy-coated synth-pop of "Filigree".