About the song
**”I Love You Because”** is a classic country song written and recorded by Leon Payne in 1949. This heartfelt ballad quickly made a significant impact on the country music scene, marking Payne’s only entry on the country charts. The original version of the song climbed to number four on the Billboard Country & Western Best Seller lists and enjoyed a remarkable two-week run at number one on the Country & Western Disk Jockey List. It remained on the chart for an impressive thirty-two weeks, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Leon Payne’s version of “I Love You Because” is notable for its simplicity and emotional depth. The song’s lyrics convey a deep, unconditional love, making it a timeless expression of affection and devotion. It gained considerable attention and was a pivotal piece in Payne’s career.
The song’s influence extended well beyond Payne’s original recording. In 1954, Elvis Presley recorded “I Love You Because” at SUN Studio in Memphis. Although producer Sam Phillips felt the song was not suited as Presley’s debut single, it was included as the B-side of “Tryin’ to Get to You” on Presley’s 1956 debut album, *Elvis Presley*.
Johnny Cash also recorded a version of the song, which was released as a single by Sun Records in December 1959, though Cash had already moved to Columbia Records by that time. His version added a unique touch to the song’s legacy.
In 1963, Jim Reeves recorded “I Love You Because” for his album *Gentleman Jim*. Released as a single in 1964, Reeves’ version achieved notable success, peaking at number five in the UK and topping the VG-Lista chart in Norway for thirteen weeks. The song’s popularity led to its inclusion as the title track of a posthumous Jim Reeves album in 1976. This album reached number 24 on the US Country LP chart, and the single version hit number 54 on the US Billboard Country singles chart that year.
Through these various renditions, “I Love You Because” has cemented its place as a cherished song in the country music genre, celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics and timeless appeal.
Video
Lyrics
I love you because you understand, dear
Every single thing I try to do
You’re always there to lend a helping hand, dear
I love you most of all because you’re you
No matter what the world may say about me
I know your love will always see me through
I love you for the way you never doubt me
But most of all I love you ’cause you’re you
I love you because my heart is lighter
Every time I’m walking by your side
I love you because the future’s brighter
The door to happiness, you open wide
No matter what the world may say about me
I know your love will always see me through
I love you for a hundred thousand reasons
But most of all I love you ’cause you’re you