About the song
“Break It to Me Gently” is a poignant pop ballad that has endured the test of time, captivating audiences with its raw emotion and heartfelt lyrics. Penned by blues musician Joe Seneca, with Diane Lampert crafting the poignant words, the song has resonated deeply with listeners across generations.
The song’s enduring popularity is evident in the remarkable success achieved by two iconic artists: Brenda Lee and Juice Newton. Brenda Lee’s rendition, recorded in 1961, became a cornerstone of her career, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying her status as a teen idol. Her youthful voice, imbued with raw vulnerability, captured the essence of heartbreak with a poignant simplicity.
Decades later, Juice Newton breathed new life into the song with her distinctive country-infused interpretation. Released in 1982, her version climbed to number two on the country charts and topped the Adult Contemporary chart, earning her a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female. Newton’s mature vocals and emotional depth transformed the song into a timeless anthem of loss and longing.
The enduring appeal of “Break It to Me Gently” lies in its universal theme of heartbreak. The song’s lyrics, with their plea for gentle treatment during a painful separation, resonate with anyone who has experienced the sting of love lost. Both Brenda Lee and Juice Newton brought their unique artistry to the song, creating interpretations that continue to touch hearts and inspire covers to this day.
Whether you prefer the youthful innocence of Brenda Lee’s version or the mature wisdom of Juice Newton’s rendition, “Break It to Me Gently” remains a powerful and enduring testament to the enduring power of music.
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Lyrics
Break it to me gently
Let me down the easy way
Make me feel that you still love me
If it’s just, if it’s just for one more day
Break it to me gently
So my tears, my tears won’t fall too fast
If you must go, then go slowly
Let me love you ’till the last
The love we shared for oh so long
Is such a big part of me
If you must take your love away
Take it gradually
Oh break it, break it to me gently
Give me time or give me a little time to ease the pain
Love me just a little longer
‘Cause I never never love again
‘Cause I’ll never love (never love again)