Introduction:
“I Know The Way By Broken Heart” is a poignant country ballad by American singer Ricky Van Shelton. The song was officially released in 1993 and is featured on his sixth studio album, A Bridge I Didn’t Burn, which was also released in August 1993. The song firmly belongs to the country music genre, characterized by its emphasis on storytelling, heartfelt vocals, and traditional country instrumentation.
While “I Know The Way By Broken Heart” is a well-regarded track by fans of Ricky Van Shelton and classic country, it did not achieve the same level of chart success as some of his earlier, more prominent hits. Unlike many of his singles that reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in the late 1980s and early 1990s (such as “Somebody Lied,” “Life Turned Her That Way,” and “I’ll Leave This World Loving You”), “I Know The Way By Broken Heart” was not released as a commercial single itself. Instead, the album A Bridge I Didn’t Burn yielded two singles: “Where Was I” and “A Couple of Good Years Left.” “Where Was I” managed to peak at number 20 on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, while “A Couple of Good Years Left” did not reach the Top 40.
Despite not being a chart-topping single, “I Know The Way By Broken Heart” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Shelton’s powerful vocal delivery and his ability to convey deep emotion. The song’s inclusion on A Bridge I Didn’t Burn, an album that reached number 17 on the US Billboard Top Country Albums chart, solidifies its place within his significant discography. Its enduring appeal lies in its relatable theme of heartache and its classic country sound, making it a cherished track among those who appreciate the genre’s traditional roots.