About the song
Mary MacGregor‘s “Torn Between Two Lovers” is a poignant and emotionally charged song that captured the complexities of love and relationships in the mid-1970s. Released in 1976, this track became a significant hit and remains one of MacGregor’s most enduring songs.
Mary MacGregor, a singer-songwriter born Mary MacGregor Hagy in Montgomery, Alabama, initially gained recognition for her distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics. “Torn Between Two Lovers” was written by Peter Yarrow, David B. Ricketts, and James L. “Jim” Ricketts. The song’s narrative explores the emotional turmoil of being caught between two romantic relationships, depicting the struggle of balancing conflicting emotions and commitments.
The song’s arrangement is characterized by its smooth, melodic style, with a focus on MacGregor’s expressive vocal performance. The production features a gentle, easy-listening arrangement with soft orchestration and a subtle rhythm, which complements the song’s introspective lyrics. MacGregor’s delivery adds an emotional depth to the track, making the listener feel the internal conflict described in the song.
“Torn Between Two Lovers” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 5 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. The song also received considerable airplay on radio stations and was a favorite on the charts during its release. Its success helped to establish Mary MacGregor as a prominent artist in the pop and adult contemporary genres of the time.
The song’s impact extends beyond its chart performance. It has been featured in various compilations and retrospectives of 1970s music and is often remembered for its emotional resonance and relatable lyrics. “Torn Between Two Lovers” continues to be appreciated by fans for its depiction of the complexities of love and the challenges of navigating multiple relationships.
In summary, Mary MacGregor‘s “Torn Between Two Lovers” is a classic 1970s hit that captures the emotional complexity of being caught between two romantic interests. With its heartfelt lyrics, smooth arrangement, and MacGregor’s compelling vocal performance, the song remains a significant and memorable piece of pop music history.
Video
Lyrics
“Torn Between Two Lovers”
Even though she knows how much it’s gonna hurt
Before 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 loved
But that doesn’t mean I love you less
And he knows he can’t possess me and he knows he never will
There’s just this empty place inside of me that only he can fill
Torn between two lovers, feelin’ like a fool
Lovin’ both of you is breakin’ all the rules
Torn between two lovers, feelin’ like a fool
Lovin’ you both is breakin’ all the rules
You mustn’t think you’ve failed me
Just because there’s someone else
You were the first real love I ever had
And all the things I ever said, I swear they still are true
For no one else can have the part of me I gave to you
Torn between two lovers, feelin’ like a fool
Lovin’ both of you is breakin’ all the rules
Torn between two lovers, feelin’ like a fool
Lovin’ you both is breakin’ all the rules
I couldn’t really blame you if you turned and walked away
But with everything I feel inside, I’m asking you to stay
Torn between two lovers, feelin’ like a fool
Lovin’ both of you is breakin’ all the rules
Torn between two lovers, feelin’ like a fool
Lovin’ you both is breakin’ all the rules
Torn between two lovers, feelin’ like a fool
Lovin’ both of you is breakin’ all the rules
Torn between two lovers, feelin’ like a fool
Lovin’ you both is breakin’ all the rules