Glenn Frey – The One You Love (1982)

Sometimes the heart gets caught in a tug-of-war between love and desire, a familiar comfort versus a thrilling unknown. That’s the emotional terrain explored in Glenn Frey’s introspective ballad, “The One You Love”. Released in 1982 as the lead single from his debut solo album, No Fun Aloud, the song struck a chord with listeners, becoming a signature piece for Frey outside of his work with the Eagles. Frey himself wrote the song, showcasing his ability to craft lyrics that resonated with the complexities of human relationships.

The opening lines, “I know you need a friend, Someone you can talk to / Who will understand what you’re going through,” immediately establish the song’s theme of emotional entanglement. The lyrics paint a picture of someone wrestling with conflicting feelings. There’s a sense of loyalty and obligation to a long-term relationship, but also a yearning for something more exciting and passionate. Frey doesn’t shy away from the emotional complexities; he acknowledges the need for support and understanding in a current relationship while also capturing the pull of a newfound desire.

Frey’s vocals are both smooth and expressive, perfectly conveying the internal struggle of the narrator. The melody, a blend of pop and rock influences, complements the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song’s catchy chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Are you gonna stay / With the one who loves you / Or are you goin’ back / To the one you love,” captures the central conflict of the song. It’s a question that many of us have faced – the security and comfort of a familiar love versus the exhilarating uncertainty of a new flame.

“The One You Love” peaked at number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, a respectable showing for Frey’s solo debut. While it may not have reached the stratospheric heights of some Eagles classics, the song solidified Frey’s status as a talented songwriter and performer in his own right. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable theme. It speaks to the ever-present complexities of love, the challenges of maintaining passion in long-term relationships, and the alluring possibilities that sometimes lie just beyond our grasp. “The One You Love” continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, serving as a poignant reminder of the delicate dance between love, security, and the yearning for something new.