About the song
“A Better Man” stands as a pivotal moment in the career of Clint Black, a song that not only marked his entrance into the country music scene but also redefined it. Released in February 1989 as the debut single from his album “Killin’ Time,” this heartfelt ballad quickly ascended to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, a feat unmatched since Freddy Fender’s era. Its reign as the number one song of 1989 solidified Black’s status as a rising star, ultimately leading to his well-deserved Country Music Association’s Horizon Award.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its raw emotional honesty. Penned by Black and Hayden Nicholas, “A Better Man” is a poignant reflection on a recently ended seven-year relationship. The lyrics, steeped in heartfelt regret and growth, resonate with listeners who have experienced the bittersweet complexities of love. The song’s signature line, “I’m leaving here a better man/For knowing you this way,” encapsulates the transformative power of relationships, even in their final chapters.
Beyond its lyrical depth, “A Better Man” is accompanied by a visually striking music video that further enhances its impact. Directed by Bill Young, the video features Black driving through the countryside, lost in contemplation of his past love. This evocative imagery perfectly complements the song’s melancholic tone, creating a powerful and unforgettable narrative.
With its chart-topping success and resonating lyrics, “A Better Man” served as a catalyst for Clint Black’s meteoric rise. It remains a timeless classic, a testament to the singer-songwriter’s talent and a cornerstone of his enduring legacy in country music.
Video
Lyrics
What do you say when it’s over?
Don’t know if I should say anything at all
One day we’re rollin’ in the clover
Next thing, you know, we take the fall
Still, I think about the years since I first met you
And the way it might have been without you here
I don’t know if words from me can still upset you
But I’ve just gotta make this memory stand clear
I know I’m leavin’ here a better man
For knowin’ you this way
Things I couldn’t do before, now I think I can
And I’m leavin’ here a better man
Guess, I always knew I couldn’t hold you
But I’d never be the one to set you free
Just like some old nursery rhyme your Mama told you
You still believe in some old, ‘Meant to be’
Still, I’m leavin’ here a better man
For knowin’ you this way
Things I couldn’t do before, now I think I can
And I’m leavin’ here a better man
Yes, I’m leavin’ here a better man
For knowin’ you this way
Things I couldn’t do before, now I know I can
And I’m leavin’ here a better man
Yes, I’m leavin’ here a better man