About the song
Background
- Released in 1971, “I’d Rather Love You” appeared on Charley Pride’s album “On The Southbound” [Listen to Charley Pride And The Pridesmen – I’d Rather Love You 1971 on YouTube].
- The song became a hit, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart [Billboard Charley Pride Chart History].
- This track is considered a classic example of Pride’s smooth vocals and storytelling ability within the country music genre.
Themes
- Enduring Love: The song explores the idea of love being worth the risk of heartbreak.
- Sacrifice and Commitment: The lyrics express a willingness to accept potential pain for the experience of love.
- Living with Uncertainty: The singer acknowledges the unknown nature of love but chooses to embrace it.
Lyrics
The lyrics delve into the emotional turmoil of loving someone:
- The first verse sets the scene with a potential final night together.
- The chorus is the core of the song, presenting the central theme: “I’d rather love you and lose you / Than never know your love at all.”
- The verses explore the singer’s internal conflict between the fear of loss and the desire for love’s fulfillment.
- Lines like “I’d never know the thrill of your sweet kiss and the tears / I get just knowing that you’re mine” highlight the bittersweet nature of love.
Charley Pride’s Performance
Pride’s smooth baritone and heartfelt delivery bring the emotional weight of the lyrics to life. The song showcases his signature style that blended country music traditions with elements of soul and pop, making him a successful crossover artist.
Video
Lyrics
If tonight should be our last night together I’m not sorry that we fell in love at allIf tomorrow sun should find me hurtin’ for you I knowThat the price for loving you would still be smallFor I’d never know the thrill of your sweet lipsAnd the chills I get just knowing that you’re mine‘Cause I’ve spent my life not knowing what real love is oh noThough I’d be hurtin’ I’m still certainThat I’d rather love and lose you than never know your love at all
For I’d never know the thrill…Yes I’d rather love and lose you than never know your love at all