About the song
Linda Ronstadt – Hurt So Bad: A Countrypolitan Classic
Linda Ronstadt, an undisputed icon of American music, has captivated audiences for decades with her soaring vocals, effortless grace, and genre-defying versatility. Throughout her illustrious career, she has seamlessly traversed the realms of rock, pop, folk, and country, leaving an indelible mark on each genre she touched. Among her vast repertoire of hits, “Hurt So Bad” stands out as a poignant ballad that showcases her mastery of countrypolitan music.
Released in 1980 as the lead single from her album Mad Love, “Hurt So Bad” is a timeless tale of heartbreak and unrequited love. Ronstadt’s voice, imbued with raw emotion and heartfelt vulnerability, paints a vivid picture of a love that has gone awry. The lyrics, penned by renowned songwriter Allen Reynolds, capture the essence of a love so deep and profound that it leaves one emotionally scarred.
From the opening notes, “Hurt So Bad” establishes a melancholic mood with its gentle guitar strumming and sorrowful melody. Ronstadt’s voice enters, weaving a tapestry of heartache and longing as she laments the loss of a love that once brought her so much joy. The lyrics unfold like a confessional, revealing the depths of her pain and the lingering hope that her love might one day return.
The song’s brilliance lies in its simplicity. Ronstadt’s unadorned vocals, devoid of any unnecessary embellishments, allow the raw emotion of the lyrics to shine through. The arrangement, too, is understated, with the gentle instrumentation providing a subtle backdrop for Ronstadt’s heartfelt performance.
“Hurt So Bad” is a testament to Ronstadt’s ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. Her voice, imbued with authenticity and empathy, resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of heartbreak. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its universal appeal, transcending time and genre to touch the hearts of generations of listeners.
As the final notes fade away, “Hurt So Bad” leaves a lingering sense of melancholy and longing. Yet, amidst the sadness, there is also a glimmer of hope, a suggestion that perhaps, one day, love will find its way back. Ronstadt’s masterful performance captures the complexities of the human heart, reminding us that even in the depths of despair, there is always the possibility of renewal.
Video
Lyrics
“Hurt So Bad”
I know you
Don’t know what I’m going through
Standing here looking at youWell let me tell you that it hurts so bad
It makes me feel so sad
It makes me hurt so bad to see you again
Like needles and pins
People say “you’ve been making out okay
He’s in love don’t stand in his way”Well, let me tell you that it hurts so bad
It makes me feel so sad
It’s gonna hurt so bad if you walk awayWhy don’t you stay and let me make it up to you
I’ll do anything you want me to
You loved me before
Please love me again
I can’t let you go back to her
Please don’t go
Please don’t go[Instrumental Interlude]
Please don’t go
Please don’t gooooooooo
Hurt so bad
Come back it hurts so bad
Don’t make it hurt so bad
I’m begging you pleaseOh-oh-oh-oh-oh, ooooooooh
Oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh, oooooooh
Come back it hurts so bad
Come back it hurts so bad
I’m begging you please
Oh
No
Noooooo