Emerging from the singer-songwriter movement of the early 1970s, Lobo’s “How Can I Tell Her” stands as a timeless ballad exploring the complexities of love and unvoiced emotions. Released in 1970 on Lobo’s third studio album, Calumet, the song resonated with audiences for its relatable story and heartfelt delivery, securing Lobo’s place as a rising star in the folk-rock scene.
The song’s composer is credited solely to Lobo, whose real name is Kent LaVoie. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, Lobo crafted a poignant narrative that delves into the inner turmoil of a man caught between two women. While he finds solace and comfort in the presence of one woman (presumably a girlfriend), his heart yearns for another, creating a dilemma that leaves him unable to express his true feelings.
“How Can I Tell Her” falls under the genre of folk-rock, a blend of traditional folk music and rock and roll influences. The song features a gentle acoustic guitar melody as its foundation, complemented by subtle piano chords and light percussion. Lobo’s distinctive baritone vocals, known for their warmth and sincerity, deliver the song’s emotional lyrics with vulnerability and honesty.
Despite its seemingly straightforward melody and structure, “How Can I Tell Her” possesses a depth that transcends the surface. The lyrics, brimming with internal conflict and unspoken desires, paint a vivid picture of the protagonist’s emotional state. He grapples with guilt, fear of rejection, and the potential consequences of pursuing his true feelings, creating a relatable narrative for anyone who has ever experienced the complexities of love and uncommunicated desires.
While “How Can I Tell Her” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Lobo’s other hits, it holds a significant place within his discography and resonated deeply with a dedicated fanbase. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes, honest portrayal of emotional vulnerability, and Lobo’s captivating performance, making it a timeless classic within the folk-rock genre.
Emerging from the singer-songwriter movement of the early 1970s, Lobo’s “How Can I Tell Her” stands as a timeless ballad exploring the complexities of love and unvoiced emotions. Released in 1970 on Lobo’s third studio album, Calumet, the song resonated with audiences for its relatable story and heartfelt delivery, securing Lobo’s place as a rising star in the folk-rock scene.
The song’s composer is credited solely to Lobo, whose real name is Kent LaVoie. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, Lobo crafted a poignant narrative that delves into the inner turmoil of a man caught between two women. While he finds solace and comfort in the presence of one woman (presumably a girlfriend), his heart yearns for another, creating a dilemma that leaves him unable to express his true feelings.
“How Can I Tell Her” falls under the genre of folk-rock, a blend of traditional folk music and rock and roll influences. The song features a gentle acoustic guitar melody as its foundation, complemented by subtle piano chords and light percussion. Lobo’s distinctive baritone vocals, known for their warmth and sincerity, deliver the song’s emotional lyrics with vulnerability and honesty.
Despite its seemingly straightforward melody and structure, “How Can I Tell Her” possesses a depth that transcends the surface. The lyrics, brimming with internal conflict and unspoken desires, paint a vivid picture of the protagonist’s emotional state. He grapples with guilt, fear of rejection, and the potential consequences of pursuing his true feelings, creating a relatable narrative for anyone who has ever experienced the complexities of love and uncommunicated desires.
While “How Can I Tell Her” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Lobo’s other hits, it holds a significant place within his discography and resonated deeply with a dedicated fanbase. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes, honest portrayal of emotional vulnerability, and Lobo’s captivating performance, making it a timeless classic within the folk-rock genre.
Video