About the song
In the early 1980s, Carly Simon embarked on a musical journey that would redefine her sound and solidify her status as a pop icon. One of the standout tracks from this era was “Why”, a bittersweet reggae-tinged ballad that showcased a departure from her usual guitar-driven hits. Penned by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of Chic, the song’s infectious rhythms and Simon’s emotive vocals resonated with audiences worldwide.
Originally recorded for the 1982 film Soup for One, which unfortunately failed to make a splash at the box office, “Why” found its true calling on the accompanying soundtrack album. The song quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top 10 in the UK and enjoying widespread success across Europe. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its timeless melody, Simon’s heartfelt performance, and the production prowess of Rodgers and Edwards.
Beyond its commercial success, “Why” has also left a lasting impact on popular culture. The song’s infectious bassline and funky drums have made it a beloved staple in the Balearic and dancehall scenes. Notably, Wham! covered the song during their iconic final concert in 1986, further cementing its legacy.
In recent years, “Why” has experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to its sampling by influential artists like A Tribe Called Quest and Glamma Kid. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transcend genres and generations, captivating listeners with its infectious rhythms and Simon’s powerful vocals. As a testament to its enduring quality, “Why” remains a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Video
Lyrics
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
Why does your love hurt so much?
Why?
Why does your love hurt so much?
Don’t know why
You know I loved you baby
But all the while, you just betrayed me
In the warmth of our bed
All the things that you said were
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
Why does your love hurt so much?
Why?
Why does your love hurt so much?
Don’t know why
You said our love was sacred
But you left me alone to make it
You want to come back again someday
But, darling, here’s what I say
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
Why does your love hurt so much?
Why?
Why does your love hurt so much?
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
La-di-da-di-da
Why, why does your love hurt so much?
You say you’ll come back again someday
But, darling, here’s what I say
La-di-da-di-da (don’t know why)
La-di-da-di-da
Why does your love hurt so much?
Don’t know why
Why does your love hurt so much?
Tell me why?