About the song
Roy Orbison is a name that resonates with many as a pillar of the early rock and roll era, and his rendition of “Love Hurts” stands as a testament to his powerful vocal prowess and emotive delivery. Originally written by the husband-and-wife songwriting duo Boudleaux Bryant, the song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but Orbison’s version remains one of the most iconic.
Released in 1961, Roy Orbison’s “Love Hurts” was featured on his album “Roy Orbison Sings Lonely and Blue”. This album is notable for its exploration of themes of heartbreak, longing, and the often-painful nuances of love, with “Love Hurts” fitting perfectly into this tapestry. The song’s simple yet profound lyrics delve into the universal experience of love’s potential for pain, capturing the essence of heartache in a way that is both poignant and relatable.
Orbison’s interpretation of “Love Hurts” is marked by his distinctive, operatic voice that conveys a deep sense of vulnerability and emotion. His vocal delivery is hauntingly beautiful, drawing listeners into the raw and aching sentiment of the lyrics. The song speaks to the inevitable side of love that comes with risk and sometimes, sorrow. With lines like “Love is just a lie, made to make you blue,” the song articulates a bittersweet truth about romantic relationships, making it a piece that many can find themselves reflected in.
The influence of Roy Orbison’s “Love Hurts” extended beyond its initial release, cementing itself as a classic in the pantheon of love songs. Its emotional depth and lyrical simplicity have made it a staple for generations, often serving as a cathartic anthem for those experiencing the pain of a broken heart. The song has also been covered by a variety of artists, from Gram Parsons to Nazareth, each bringing their own unique style to the timeless track, yet none quite capturing the same raw emotion as Orbison’s version.
In terms of its social impact, “Love Hurts” resonates on a deeply personal level with listeners. At a time when music was a primary outlet for expressing the complexities of human emotion, Orbison’s heartfelt rendition offered a mirror to those grappling with their own feelings of loss and heartache. It reinforced the idea that pain is an intrinsic part of the human experience, especially in matters of the heart, and that sharing these feelings through music can provide solace and understanding.
The 1960s was an era rich with musical innovation and emotional expression, and Roy Orbison was at the forefront of this movement. His ability to infuse songs with profound emotional depth set him apart from his contemporaries. “Love Hurts” is a prime example of his talent for translating complex emotions into song, creating a lasting legacy that continues to touch hearts to this day.
In conclusion, “Love Hurts” is more than just a song; it is a universal anthem of the bittersweet nature of love, immortalized by Roy Orbison’s hauntingly beautiful performance. Its simple yet profound message, coupled with Orbison’s powerful delivery, ensures that it remains a timeless classic, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the sting of love’s tender embrace. Whether revisited by longtime fans or discovered anew, “Love Hurts” stands as a poignant reminder of the depth and complexity of human emotions.
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Lyrics
Love hurts, love scars
Love wounds and mars
Any heart not tough
Nor strong enough
To take a lot of pain, take a lot of pain
Love is like a cloud, holds a lot of rain
Love hurts
Love hurtsI’m young, I know
But even so
I know a thing or two
I learned from you
I really learned a lot, really learned a lot
Love is like a stove, burns you when it’s hot
Love hurts
Love hurtsSome fools rave of happiness
Blissfulness, togetherness
Some fools fool themselves, I guess
But they’re not foolin’ meI know it isn’t true, know it isn’t true
Love is just a lie made to make you blue
Love hurts
Love hurts
Love hurts…