About the song
If you were to compile a playlist of songs that defined the rock era of the 1970s and 80s, Meat Loaf’s “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad” would undoubtedly secure a prominent spot. Released in 1977 as part of his groundbreaking album Bat Out of Hell, this power ballad has become a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners of all generations.
The song’s title itself is a playful twist on the common phrase “two out of three ain’t bad,” inviting the listener to consider the complexities and compromises of romantic relationships. This theme of imperfect love and the pursuit of happiness is a universal one, resonating with anyone who has ever experienced the highs and lows of romance.
Meat Loaf’s powerful vocals and dramatic delivery perfectly complement the song’s soaring melody. His voice, with its raw energy and emotional depth, conveys a sense of vulnerability and longing that is both relatable and compelling. The lyrics, co-written by Jim Steinman, paint a vivid picture of a passionate and tumultuous love affair. The imagery is rich and evocative, filled with references to motorcycles, leather jackets, and late-night drives, capturing the spirit of a bygone era.
One of the most striking aspects of “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad” is its ability to balance darkness and light. While the song explores themes of heartbreak and loss, it also celebrates the intensity and passion of love. The juxtaposition of these contrasting emotions creates a sense of emotional complexity that is both haunting and beautiful.
Musically, the song is a masterpiece of rock and roll grandeur. The soaring chorus, backed by a wall of guitars and a driving rhythm section, is both anthemic and intimate. The song’s arrangement is lush and cinematic, creating a sense of epic scale that is befitting of its timeless status.
“Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad” has endured for decades because it taps into something deep within the human psyche. It’s a song about love, loss, and the search for meaning in a sometimes chaotic world. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Meat Loaf or simply appreciate great rock music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
Baby, we can talk all night
But that ain’t gettin us nowhere
I told you everything I possibly can
There’s nothing left inside of here
And maybe you can cry all night
But that’ll never change the way that I feel
The snow is really piling up outside
I wish you wouldn’t make me leave here
I poured it on and I poured it out
I tried to show you just how much I care
I’m tired of words and I’m too hoarse to shout
But you’ve been cold to me so long
I’m crying icicles instead of tears
And all I can do is keep on telling you
I want you (I want you)
I need you (I need you)
There ain’t no way I’m ever gonna love you
Now don’t be sad (don’t be sad ’cause)
‘Cause two out of three ain’t bad
Now don’t be sad (’cause)
‘Cause two out of three ain’t bad
You’ll never find your gold on a sandy beach
You’ll never drill for oil on a city street
I know you’re looking for a ruby in a mountain of rocks
But there ain’t no Coup de Ville
Hiding at the bottom of a Cracker Jack box
I can’t lie (I can’t lie)
I can’t tell you that I’m something I’m not
No matter how I try
I’ll never be able to give you something
Something that I just haven’t got
There’s only one girl I’ll ever love
And that was so many years ago
And though I know I’ll never get her out of my heart
She never loved me back
Ooh I know
Well I remember how she left me on a stormy night
Oh she kissed me and got out of our bed
And though I pleaded and I begged her not to walk out that door
She packed her bags and turned right away
And she kept on telling me
She kept on telling me
She kept on telling me
I want you (I want you)
I need you (I need you)
There ain’t no way I’m ever gonna love you
Now don’t be sad (don’t be sad ’cause)
‘Cause two out of three ain’t bad
I want you (I want you)
I need you (I need you)
There ain’t no way I’m ever gonna love you
Now don’t be sad (don’t be sad ’cause)
‘Cause two out of three ain’t bad
Now don’t be sad
‘Cause two out of three ain’t bad
Baby, we can talk all night
But that ain’t getting us nowhere