About the song
“The First Cut Is the Deepest” stands as a poignant testament to the enduring emotional impact of lost love, resonating through its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies. Originally penned by British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens in 1967, the song explores the profound ache of experiencing one’s first heartbreak. Its title metaphorically captures the depth of that initial emotional wound, suggesting that the pain from such a loss lingers longest and cuts deepest.
Initially, Cat Stevens recorded a demo of the song in 1965 as part of his early career aspirations as a songwriter. However, it was American singer P. P. Arnold who first brought the song to public acclaim with her dynamic rendition released in April 1967. Arnold’s version, characterized by its up-tempo soulfulness and lush instrumentation including harpsichord, horns, and strings, reached No. 18 on the UK Singles Chart. Her interpretation set the stage for the song’s enduring popularity and subsequent covers by a range of artists.
Cat Stevens later recorded his own definitive version, which appeared on his album *New Masters* in December 1967. His rendition, featuring his trademark introspective vocals and acoustic guitar, added a personal depth to the song’s narrative. Despite Stevens’ original intention to sell the song to other artists, its evolution through different performers—including Keith Hampshire, Rod Stewart, and Sheryl Crow—solidified its status as a cross-generational anthem of love and loss.
Over the years, “The First Cut Is the Deepest” has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition, earning Stevens several songwriting awards and maintaining its relevance through multiple cinematic and musical adaptations. Its ability to capture the universal theme of heartache in a deeply personal manner continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, cementing its place as a timeless classic in the realm of popular music.
Video
Lyrics
I would have given you all of my heart
But there’s someone who’s torn it apart
And she’s taken just all that I had
But if you want, I’ll try to love again
Baby, I’ll try to love again, but I know
The first cut is the deepest
Baby, I know, the first cut is the deepest
When it come to being lucky, she’s cursed
When it come to loving me, she’s worst
I still want you by my side
Just to help me dry the tears that I’ve cried
And I’m sure gonna give you a try
And if you want, I’ll try to love again
Baby, I’ll try to love again, but I know
The first cut is the deepest
Baby, I know, the first cut is the deepest
And when it come to being lucky, she’s cursed
When it come to loving me, she’s worst
I still want you by my side
Just to help me dry the tears that I’ve cried
But I’m sure gonna give you a try
‘Cause if you want, I’ll try to love again
Baby, I’ll try to love again, but I know
Whoo!
The first cut is the deepest
Baby, I know, the first cut is the deepest
When it come to being lucky, she’s cursed
When it come to loving me, she’s worst