About the song
Jim Croce and the Enduring Charm of “I’ll Have to Say I Love You in a Song”
In the realm of folk and pop music, few artists have captured the hearts of listeners quite like Jim Croce. With his raspy vocals, witty songwriting, and infectious melodies, Croce crafted a sound that resonated with audiences across generations. Among his most beloved and enduring songs is the heartfelt ballad “I’ll Have to Say I Love You in a Song.”
Released in 1973 as part of Croce’s album “I Got a Name,” “I’ll Have to Say I Love You in a Song” quickly became a fan favorite. The song’s charm lies in its relatable narrative, capturing the awkwardness and vulnerability of expressing love amidst the complexities of human relationships.
Croce’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man struggling to articulate his emotions in person, finding solace and clarity instead in the medium of song. The opening lines, “Well, I know it’s kind of late, I hope I didn’t wake you, but what I’ve got to say can’t wait,” set the stage for an intimate confession, a heartfelt expression that transcends the barriers of traditional courtship.
The song’s chorus, “I’ll have to say I love you in a song,” is a poignant declaration, a testament to the power of music to convey emotions that words alone may fail to capture. Croce’s voice, imbued with sincerity and tenderness, carries the weight of his affection, making the song a deeply personal and moving expression of love.
Beyond its lyrical depth, “I’ll Have to Say I Love You in a Song” is also a testament to Croce’s songwriting prowess. The melody is simple yet memorable, perfectly complementing the song’s message. The gentle strumming of the guitar and the subtle backing vocals create a warm and inviting atmosphere, allowing Croce’s vocals to take center stage.
The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its universal appeal. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Art Garfunkel, Neil Diamond, and Glen Campbell, each adding their own interpretation to Croce’s timeless masterpiece.
“I’ll Have to Say I Love You in a Song” remains a cherished staple of Croce’s legacy, a testament to his ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. Its heartfelt lyrics, relatable narrative, and charming melody have made it a timeless classic, continuing to resonate with audiences as a poignant expression of love and the power of music.
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Lyrics
“I’ll Have To Say I Love You In A Song”
Well, I know it’s kinda late.
I hope I didn’t wake you.
But what I gotta say can’t wait,
I know you’d understand.Every time I tried to tell you,
The words just came out wrong,
So I’ll have to say I love you in a song.Yeah, I know it’s kinda strange.
Every time I’m near you,
I just run out of things to say.
I know you’d understand.Every time I tried to tell you,
The words just came out wrong,
So I’ll have to say I love you in a song.Every time the time was right,
All the words just came out wrong,
So I’ll have to say I love you in a songYeah, I know it’s kinda late.
Hope I didn’t wake you,
But there’s something I just gotta say.
Know you’d understand.Every time I tried to tell you,
The words just came out wrong
So I’ll have to say I love you in a song.