About The Song
In the realm of country music, few names resonate with the same enduring legacy as Conway Twitty. With his rich baritone voice and heartfelt delivery, Twitty captivated audiences for decades, earning him the title of “Honky Tonk Angel.” Among his vast repertoire of hits, one song stands out as a testament to his mastery of emotional storytelling: “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)”.
Released in 1973, “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)” is a poignant ballad that explores the complexities of love and longing. The song’s narrator finds himself in a relationship that falls short of true love, yet he can’t deny the comfort and companionship it provides. As he grapples with these conflicting emotions, he paints a vivid picture of a love that is “not quite heaven, but not quite hell.”
Twitty’s masterful vocals bring the song’s lyrics to life, imbuing each word with a depth of emotion that resonates with listeners. His voice effortlessly conveys the narrator’s internal struggle, capturing the bittersweet blend of longing and acceptance that defines this unconventional relationship.
Beyond Twitty’s captivating vocals, “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)” is a testament to the power of songwriting. The song’s lyrics, penned by Glenn Martin and Hank Cochran, capture the nuances of human emotion with remarkable clarity. They explore the gray areas of love, acknowledging that relationships can exist in a space between passion and indifference.
This song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. The narrator’s experiences mirror the complexities of love and relationships that many have faced, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding among listeners. “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)” is a reminder that love can manifest in various forms, and that even in relationships that fall short of ideal, there can be comfort, companionship, and a sense of belonging.
As the song fades, the narrator leaves us with a poignant realization: “It’s not love, but it’s not bad.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of the song, acknowledging the imperfections of love while embracing the value of connection and companionship. In a world that often glorifies idealized notions of love, “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)” offers a refreshing dose of honesty and acceptance, reminding us that love can exist in many forms, each with its own unique beauty and significance.
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Lyric
She was always there each time I needed youHolding on to me like I held on to youWe still don’t have what you and I once hadNo, it’s not love, but it’s not badNo, it’s not love, not like ours was. It’s not loveBut it keeps love from driving me madAnd I don’t have to wonder who she’s hadNo, it’s not love, but it’s not badI turn to her when you leave me aloneSometimes even when you’re here, and you’re still goneShe’s slowly changing what you leave so sadNo, it’s not love, but it’s not badNo, it’s not love, not like ours was. It’s not loveBut it keeps love from driving me madAnd I don’t have to wonder who she’s hadNo, it’s not love, but it’s not bad