About the song
“Holding Her and Loving You” by Earl Thomas Conley is a poignant country ballad that showcases Conley’s heartfelt vocals and skillful storytelling. Released in 1983 as part of his album “Don’t Make It Easy for Me,” the song quickly became one of his signature hits, resonating deeply with country music fans and earning critical acclaim for its emotional depth.
The song was written by Earl Thomas Conley himself along with Bob McDill, a renowned songwriter in the country music industry known for his ability to craft lyrics that capture the complexities of love and relationships. “Holding Her and Loving You” explores the bittersweet dilemma of being torn between two loves—the comfort of holding onto a current relationship while yearning for a past love that still lingers in the heart.
Upon its release, “Holding Her and Loving You” achieved significant success on the country music charts. It topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, marking it as Conley’s second number one single on that chart. The song’s popularity extended beyond just country music listeners, resonating with anyone who has grappled with conflicting emotions in matters of the heart.
Earl Thomas Conley’s soulful delivery and the song’s evocative lyrics make “Holding Her and Loving You” a standout in the realm of country music ballads. Its ability to convey the emotional complexity of love and loss has made it a timeless classic that continues to be cherished by fans of Conley’s music and country music enthusiasts alike.
The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to Conley’s talent as both a singer and songwriter, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in country music during the 1980s. “Holding Her and Loving You” remains a poignant reminder of the universal themes of love and longing, ensuring its place in the hearts of listeners for generations to come.
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Lyrics
It’s the third-hardest thing I’ll ever do
Leavin’ here without you
And the second-hardest thing I’ll ever do
Is tellin’ her about you
She’s been good to me when things were goin’ rough
How can I tell her now, good ain’t good enough
Oh, the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do
Is holding her, and loving you
If she’d give me one good reason, I’d be gone
She ain’t done one thing wrong
So don’t expect me just to walk out of the door
I still love her, but I love you more
She’s been good to me when things weren’t goin’ right
She made my days long before you made my nights
So the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do
Is holding her, and loving you
Yeah, the hardest thing I’ve ever have to do
Is holding her, and loving you
Girl, the hardest thing I’ve ever have to do
Is holding her, and loving you