Introduction:
Emerging from the powerful pipes of Welsh songstress Bonnie Tyler, It’s A Heartache became an instant classic upon its release in 1978. The song seamlessly blended the genres of pop and rock, showcasing Tyler’s distinctive raspy vocals that would become her signature sound.
Composed by songwriting duo Ronnie Scott and Steve Wolfe, It’s A Heartache was produced by David Mackay. Mackay had just finished construction of his own recording studio that summer, and It’s A Heartache was one of the very first songs recorded there. Interestingly, the song came about during a time when Tyler herself was recovering from surgery to remove nodules from her vocal cords. Despite this challenge, It’s A Heartache became a testament to her enduring talent.
The song’s lyrics explore the universal theme of heartbreak, depicting the raw emotions of a love that has gone wrong. It’s A Heartache captures the vulnerability and disappointment that comes with realizing a relationship isn’t what you expected. The chorus, with its simple yet powerful refrain of “It’s a heartache, nothing but a heartache,” became an anthem for anyone who had experienced the pain of love lost.
It’s A Heartache launched itself onto the international music scene, achieving immense success. The song topped the charts in numerous countries, including Australia, Canada, and across Europe. It reached an impressive number three spot on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. This global recognition solidified It’s A Heartache as a major turning point in Tyler’s career. It became her signature song, forever linked to her name and powerful voice.
The enduring legacy of It’s A Heartache is a testament to its timeless quality. Even today, the song continues to resonate with listeners across generations. Its popularity is evident at karaoke nights around the world, where singers belt out the song’s iconic chorus with an emotional connection that transcends time. It’s A Heartache stands as a powerful ballad that continues to touch hearts and remains a cornerstone of Bonnie Tyler’s impressive musical journey.
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Lyrics:
It’s a heartacheNothing but a heartache (oh, yeah)Hits you when it’s too lateHits you when you’re down
It’s a fool’s gameNothing but a fool’s gameStanding in the cold rainFeeling like a clown
It’s a heartacheNothing but a heartacheYou love until your heart breaksThen he lets you down
It ain’t right with love to shareWhen you find he doesn’t care for youIt ain’t wise to need someoneAs much as I depended on you
It’s a heartacheNothing but a heartacheHits you when it’s too lateHits you when you’re down
It’s a fool’s game (yeah, yeah)Nothing but a fool’s gameStanding in the cold rainFeeling like a clown
It ain’t right with love to shareWhen you find he doesn’t care for youIt ain’t wise to need someoneAs much as I depended on you, yes, I do
It’s a heartacheNothing but a heartacheYou love until your heart breaksThen he lets you down
It’s a heartacheStanding in the cold rainYou love until your heart breaksThen he lets you down