About The Song
Released in 1988 as part of Rod Stewart's album "Out of Order," "My Heart Can't Tell You No" is a poignant ballad that showcases Stewart's ability to convey emotion through his distinctive voice. The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar, setting a somber tone that complements the heartfelt lyrics. Stewart's gravelly vocals bring a raw and authentic quality to the performance, allowing the listener to connect with the emotional depth of the song.
At the heart of "My Heart Can't Tell You No" is a narrative of heartbreak and regret. The lyrics, penned by Simon Climie and Dennis Morgan, tell the story of someone who finds themselves unable to resist the temptation of a past love, despite the consequences. Stewart's delivery of the lyrics is filled with sincerity, capturing the vulnerability and internal conflict of the protagonist. The emotional weight of the song is further intensified by the soulful melodies and the tasteful instrumentation, including the poignant use of strings that heighten the overall impact of the ballad.
The song's musical arrangement is a testament to Rod Stewart's versatility as an artist. While known for his contributions to rock and pop, "My Heart Can't Tell You No" showcases Stewart's ability to excel in the realm of ballads. The carefully crafted arrangement allows the lyrics to take center stage, with Stewart's vocals carrying the emotional weight of the song. The acoustic guitar, combined with subtle orchestration, creates a melodic backdrop that enhances the evocative nature of the track.
"My Heart Can't Tell You No" became a commercial success for Rod Stewart, reaching the top 10 on various music charts. Its universal theme of heartbreak and the struggle to resist the pull of a past love resonated with audiences around the world. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless nature of Stewart's vocal delivery and the relatability of its emotionally charged lyrics. It remains a staple in Stewart's discography, often remembered as one of his standout performances in the realm of ballads.
In conclusion, "My Heart Can't Tell You No" is a powerful ballad that showcases Rod Stewart's ability to convey complex emotions through his music. The song's success lies in its heartfelt lyrics, Stewart's soulful vocals, and the carefully arranged instrumentation that elevates the emotional impact. As a standout track from the late 1980s, the song continues to resonate with audiences, standing as a testament to Rod Stewart's enduring influence in the realm of emotional and evocative ballads.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I don't want you
To come round here no more
I beg you for mercy
You don't know how strong
My weakness is
Or how much it hurts me
Cause when you said it over with him
I want to believe it's true
So I let you in knowing tomorrow
I'm gonna wake up missing you
Wake up missing you
When the one you love's
In love with someone else
Don't you know it's torture
I mean it's a living hell
No matter how I try to convince myself
This time I won't lose control
One look in your blue eyes
And suddenly my heart can't tell you no
I don't want you
To call me up no more
Saying you need me
You're crazy if you think
Just half your love
Could ever please me
Still I want to hold you, touch you
When you look at me that way
There's only one solution I know
You gotta stay away from me
Stay away from me
When the one you love's
In love with someone else
Don't you know it's torture
I mean it's a living hell
No matter how I try to convince myself
This time I won't lose control
One look in your sad eyes
And suddenly my heart can't tell you no
My Heart can't tell you no
I don't want you
To come round here no more
I beg you for mercy
You don't know how strong
My weakness is
Or how much it hurts me
Cause when you say its over with him
I want to believe it's true
So I let you in knowing tomorrow
I'm gonna wake up missing you
Wake up missing you
When the one you love's
In love with someone else
Don't you know it's torture
I mean it's a living hell, a living hell
When the one you love's
In love with someone else
Don't you know it's torture
I mean it's a living hell, a living hell