About the song
“I Can’t Tell You Why” is a poignant love ballad by the American rock band Eagles, featured on their 1979 album, *The Long Run*. Written by band members Timothy B. Schmit, Glenn Frey, and Don Henley, the song holds a special place in the band’s history as it was the first Eagles song to feature Schmit on lead vocals. Recorded in March 1978, it was the first track completed for the album, marking a significant milestone for the band during a time of creative and personal challenges.
Released as a single in February 1980, “I Can’t Tell You Why” quickly climbed the charts, becoming a Billboard top 10 hit in April of the same year. It reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 and number three on the Adult Contemporary chart, solidifying its status as a major success. This track also marked the Eagles’ last top ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100, symbolizing the end of an era for the band.
The song received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and musical composition. Cash Box praised Schmit’s “aching, near-falsetto vocal,” which added a haunting quality to the love song, enhanced by a tastefully sparse instrumental arrangement. Record World echoed this sentiment, highlighting Schmit’s sweet falsetto and his significant contribution to the song’s writing.
Over the years, “I Can’t Tell You Why” has continued to garner recognition and accolades. In 2017, Billboard ranked it sixth on its list of the 15 greatest Eagles songs. Two years later, Rolling Stone placed it at number 11 on its list of the 40 greatest Eagles songs. Sterling Whitaker of Ultimate Classic Rock praised the track as the Eagles’ fifth most underrated song, commending Schmit’s “beautiful falsetto” and Frey’s “melodic” guitar solo.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its introspective lyrics and mellow, soulful sound. Schmit’s vocal performance is particularly noteworthy, delivering a sense of vulnerability and sincerity that resonates with listeners. The collaboration between Schmit, Frey, and Henley resulted in a composition that seamlessly blends rock and soul elements, creating a timeless piece that continues to touch hearts.
“I Can’t Tell You Why” remains a testament to the Eagles’ versatility and musical prowess. Its success and enduring popularity highlight the band’s ability to craft songs that transcend time, capturing the complexities of love and emotion with finesse. As one of the standout tracks from *The Long Run*, it showcases the unique contributions of each band member, particularly Schmit, whose lead vocals brought a fresh and emotive dimension to the Eagles’ sound.
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Lyrics
Look at us, baby, up all night
Tearing our love apart
Aren’t we the same two people
Who lived through years in the dark?
Every time I try to walk away
Something makes me turn around and stay
And I can’t tell you why
When we get crazy, it just ain’t right
(Try to keep your head, little girl)
Girl, I get lonely too
You don’t have to worry, just hold on tight
(Don’t get caught in your little world)
‘Cause I love you
Nothing’s wrong as far as I can see
We make it harder than it has to be
And I can’t tell you why
No, baby, I can’t tell you why
I can’t tell you why
Every time I try to walk away
Something makes me turn around and stay
And I can’t tell you why
No, no baby, I can’t tell you why
I can’t tell you why
I can’t tell you why, no