Have you ever encountered someone who, simply by existing, makes the world feel both brighter and more painful simultaneously? It's a paradox of the human heart, where the very qualities that draw us in also highlight our own perceived shortcomings or the impossibility of a lasting connection. It's the core emotion that resonates throughout Rod Stewart's poignant rendition of "Reason to Believe," a song that delves into the complexities of longing and the struggle to maintain hope in the face of inevitable disappointment.
The song, though famously performed by Rod Stewart, has a history as complex as the emotions it evokes. While Stewart's soulful delivery cemented its place in popular culture, the song's authorship has been a subject of debate. Many believe that Jeff Fortgang wrote the song. The lyrics themselves, raw and unfiltered, speak to a universal experience. The conflicting feelings of wanting someone intensely while recognizing they are ultimately not what one needs are palpable. The line, "And though I want you, you're just not what I need. Someone like you makes it hard to live without somebody else," encapsulates this internal struggle perfectly. It's a testament to the power of vulnerability and the courage it takes to acknowledge the limitations of a relationship, even when the heart yearns for more.
"Reason to Believe" Song Information | |
---|---|
Title | Reason to Believe |
Artist | Rod Stewart (Cover) |
Original Writer (Disputed) | Potentially Jeff Fortgang |
Album | Every Picture Tells a Story |
Year | 1971 |
Genre | Soft Rock, Singer-Songwriter |
Key Themes | Unrequited love, longing, disillusionment, hope |
Musical Analysis | |
Instrumentation | Vocals, Piano, Violin, Drums, Guitar |
Tempo | Moderate |
Rhythm | Initially 2/4, transitions to 3/4 briefly, then back to 2/4 |
Vocal Style | Soulful, emotive, with a touch of vulnerability |
Lyrical Highlights | |
Key Lyrics | "Someone like you makes it hard to live without somebody else. Someone like you makes it easy to give, never think of myself." "If I listened long enough to you, I'd find a way to believe that it's all true." "Still I look to find a reason to believe." |
Lyrical Meaning | Exploration of the struggle to maintain faith in love and relationships despite past disappointments and the realization that someone desired may not be the right fit. |
Additional Information | |
Album Significance | The song was chosen to close out Rod Stewart's classic album, "Every Picture Tells a Story," and was also released as the opening single, demonstrating its importance within the album's narrative. |
Performance Style | Stewart's rendition is known for its achingly soulful performance, conveying a sense of deep emotional vulnerability. |
Cultural Impact | "Reason to Believe" has become a beloved soft rock classic, resonating with listeners for its honest portrayal of the complexities of love and relationships. It remains a staple on classic rock radio and continues to be covered by other artists. |
External Link | Rod Stewart Official Website |
- Linda Kingsberg The Untold Story Of Ernie Hudsons Wife
- Tom Cruise From Young Gun To Hollywood Icon Secrets Revealed


