Introduction:
Released in 1977, “Torn Between Two Lovers” is a ballad by American singer-songwriter Mary MacGregor. The song’s melancholic sound and introspective lyrics resonated with listeners, propelling it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart for two weeks.
“Torn Between Two Lovers” falls under the genre of adult contemporary. This genre of popular music emerged in the 1960s, targeting an audience of older listeners. Adult contemporary music typically features softer instrumentation and more sophisticated lyrics compared to mainstream pop music. Allen Toussaint, a legendary record producer from New Orleans, produced “Torn Between Two Lovers.” Toussaint was known for his work with iconic R&B and soul artists like Irma Thomas and The Meters. His production style, characterized by a prominent rhythm section and horns, lent itself well to “Torn Between Two Lovers,” creating a backdrop that perfectly complemented MacGregor’s emotional vocals.
The lyrics of “Torn Between Two Lovers” explore a complex internal conflict. The narrator, a woman, confesses her love for two different men, creating a heartbreaking internal dilemma. The song’s emotional core lies in the narrator’s struggle to choose between them, torn between her feelings and the societal expectations of monogamy. This theme resonated with many listeners, particularly women who had experienced similar emotional complexities in their own lives.
“Torn Between Two Lovers” achieved immense commercial success. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for two weeks and reached number one on charts in several other countries, including Canada and Australia. The song’s success established Mary MacGregor as a household name and solidified her place in pop music history. Furthermore, “Torn Between Two Lovers” received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Vocal Performance – Female, a testament to the song’s enduring impact and MacGregor’s captivating vocal performance.
Even though Mary MacGregor’s recording career did not produce another major hit after “Torn Between Two Lovers,” the song itself continues to be a popular choice for cover versions by other artists. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, solidifying its place in pop culture. “Torn Between Two Lovers” remains a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with listeners for its poignant lyrics, universal themes, and Mary MacGregor’s unforgettable vocals.
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Lyrics:
There are times when a woman has to say what’s on her mindEven though she knows how much it’s gonna hurtBefore I say another word, let me tell you “I love you”Let me hold you close, and say these words as gently as I can
“There’s been another man that I’ve needed, and I’ve lovedBut that doesn’t mean I love you lessAnd he knows he can’t possess me, and he knows he never willThere’s just this empty place inside of me that only he can fill”
Torn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving both of you is breaking all the rulesTorn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving you both is breaking all the rules
You mustn’t think you failed me just because there’s someone elseYou were the first real love I ever hadAnd all the things I ever said, I swear they still are trueFor no one else can have the part of me I gave to you
Torn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving both of you is breaking all the rulesTorn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving you both is breaking all the rules
I couldn’t really blame you if you turned and walked awayBut with everything I feel inside, I’m asking you to stay
Torn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving both of you is breaking all the rulesTorn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving you both is breaking all the rules
Torn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving both of you is breaking all the rulesTorn between two lovers, feeling like a fool-