Introduction:
“More Than I Can Say” is a soft rock song famously performed by British singer-songwriter Leo Sayer. Released in 1980, this track became a global hit and remains one of Sayer’s signature songs. It appears on his eighth studio album, Living in a Fantasy, which marked a significant moment in his career, shifting his sound towards more mainstream pop-rock and soft ballads.
The song was not originally written by Leo Sayer but by Sonny Curtis and Jerry Allison, two members of Buddy Holly’s backing band, The Crickets. Curtis and Allison had first recorded it in 1960, a few years after Holly’s untimely death. Although their version enjoyed modest success, it wasn’t until Sayer’s rendition two decades later that “More Than I Can Say” gained widespread popularity.
Sayer’s cover of the song was recorded with producer Alan Tarney, who was known for working with other pop artists of the time, such as Cliff Richard. The production style of “More Than I Can Say” reflects the soft rock and pop tendencies of the late ’70s and early ’80s, characterized by its smooth, mellow sound, layered harmonies, and easygoing rhythm. Sayer’s emotive and tender vocal delivery was a perfect match for the heartfelt lyrics, which talk about love, regret, and longing.
Upon its release, “More Than I Can Say” achieved considerable success. It became a major hit on both sides of the Atlantic, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and the UK Singles Chart. Additionally, the song topped the charts in countries like Canada and Norway. Its success cemented Leo Sayer’s place in the pop music landscape of the time and contributed to the enduring appeal of Living in a Fantasy.
The song is still beloved today for its classic soft rock feel and nostalgic sentiment, making it a staple of radio stations and playlists focused on timeless hits from the 1980s.