Introduction:
Released in 1977, “Torn Between Two Lovers” by Mary MacGregor is a pop ballad that etched its place in music history. The song narrates the emotional turmoil of a woman caught in a love triangle, torn between two significant relationships.
Mary MacGregor, a classically trained vocalist, landed a recording contract with Ariola America after a chance encounter with an industry executive. Allen Toussaint, the legendary producer renowned for his work with artists like Labelle and The Meters, was brought on board to helm the recording sessions for MacGregor’s debut album.
“Torn Between Two Lovers”, written by Peter Yarrow (of the folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary) and Phillip Jarrell, struck a chord with listeners. The song’s melancholic melody, imbued with a touch of elegance, perfectly complemented MacGregor’s rich and expressive vocals. The lyrics, delivered with raw vulnerability, explored the complexities of love and betrayal. Lines like “Loving you both is breaking all the rules” resonated with those who had ever grappled with conflicting emotions in their romantic lives.
“Torn Between Two Lovers” became an instant sensation. It soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in February 1977, staying there for a week. It remained in the Top 10 for ten weeks and earned Gold certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The song’s success propelled MacGregor’s debut album, also titled “Torn Between Two Lovers,” to significant sales figures.
“Torn Between Two Lovers” not only became MacGregor’s signature song but also garnered her a nomination for Best New Female Vocalist at the 1978 Grammy Awards. The song transcended its chart success and cultural impact, becoming a popular choice for covers by established and upcoming artists. Artists like Tanya Tucker, Freddie Jackson, and even Elaine Paige, a renowned musical theatre performer, have all taken on their renditions of the song, a testament to its enduring legacy.
“Torn Between Two Lovers” stands as a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with listeners today. The song’s poignant exploration of a complex emotional state, coupled with MacGregor’s powerful vocals and Allen Toussaint’s masterful production, solidified its place as a pop music classic.
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Lyrics:
There are times when a woman has to say what’s on her mindEven though she knows how much it’s gonna hurtBefore 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 lovedBut that doesn’t mean I love you lessAnd he knows he can’t possess me, and he knows he never willThere’s just this empty place inside of me that only he can fill”
Torn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving both of you is breaking all the rulesTorn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving you both is breaking all the rules
You mustn’t think you failed me just because there’s someone elseYou were the first real love I ever hadAnd all the things I ever said, I swear they still are trueFor no one else can have the part of me I gave to you
Torn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving both of you is breaking all the rulesTorn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving you both is breaking all the rules
I couldn’t really blame you if you turned and walked awayBut with everything I feel inside, I’m asking you to stay
Torn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving both of you is breaking all the rulesTorn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving you both is breaking all the rules
Torn between two lovers, feeling like a foolLoving both of you is breaking all the rulesTorn between two lovers, feeling like a fool-