Tell Me Why
Wynonna Lyrics
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But it's always raining here inside
I can see
You really had a hold on me
It's a mean old love
With a flame that never dies
Won't you tell me why
Everywhere I go you're in my shadow
When I turn around there's no one there
And it's a real bad sign
I'm walking on a real thin line
A fool in love with a fool that never cared
Won't you tell me why
I can't say goodbye
Won't you tell me why
Ask anyone you know
And they'll say love fades away
But this hearts' cryin' just like yesterday
And it's a real bad sign
I'm walking on a real thin line
A fool in love with a fool that never cared
So won't you tell me why
I can't say goodbye
Won't you tell me why
I can't say goodbye
Wynonna Judd's "Tell Me Why" is a song that delves into the complexities of a love that should no longer exist. As the song begins, the singer talks about how, despite the brightness of the world outside, there is a certain sense of sadness inside of her. This sadness is attached to a past lover who has had an insurmountable hold on her. She describes this love as being "mean" perhaps because it has caused her a lot of pain over time. However, the flame of that love never seems to die, and that is part of why it's so difficult to move on.
The chorus is a plea to the lover who has a grip on her heart. She implores them to explain to her why she can't let go, why it's impossible to say goodbye. The next verse speaks of how her lover seems to follow her everywhere, even in her shadows. There's a sense of obsession that comes across here, as though she can't escape the memory of this person. The singer recognizes that this is not a healthy way to continue to exist, and that she is walking a thin line by holding on to someone who never cared for her in the way she deserved.
Overall, "Tell Me Why" is a gut-wrenching song that speaks to the vulnerability of the human heart. Wynonna's voice packs an emotional punch, and it is clear that the singer has lived through the passions and pains she is describing in this song.
Line by Line Meaning
Everywhere I look the sun is shining
The world around me seems happy and bright.
But it's always raining here inside
Despite the sunny exterior, I feel sad and gloomy on the inside.
I can see
I understand and recognize the situation I'm in.
You really had a hold on me
You had a strong emotional grip on me.
It's a mean old love
This type of love is cruel and harsh.
With a flame that never dies
Despite the hardships, the passion and intensity of the love remain strong.
Won't you tell me why
I'm seeking an explanation or reason for my inability to move on.
Everywhere I go you're in my shadow
No matter where I am or what I do, thoughts of you linger and haunt me.
When I turn around there's no one there
I feel alone and like there's no one who can understand what I'm going through.
And it's a real bad sign
These feelings and thoughts are not healthy or positive signs for me.
I'm walking on a real thin line
I'm precariously balanced between holding on to the past and moving forward.
A fool in love with a fool that never cared
I was foolish to fall in love with someone who didn't care for me in the same way.
Ask anyone you know
Others believe that love fades over time.
And they'll say love fades away
Most people believe that love eventually weakens and disappears over time.
But this hearts' cryin' just like yesterday
Despite what others say, my heart still aches and longs for you like it did before.
So won't you tell me why
I'm still searching for an explanation or reason for my attachment to you.
I can't say goodbye
I'm still unable or unwilling to let go of the past and move on.
Won't you tell me why
I'm still asking for an explanation or reason for my inability to say goodbye.
Lyrics © OBO APRA/AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@wmweirich
Frick'n amazing set of "Pipes" on that wonderful Gal!!! We just got back from seeing Wynonna and her AWESOME BAND - with Cactus @ the helm producing producing producing so damn well, at the Walhalla PAC in Walhalla South Carolina. 446 people seated, and we were treated to channeling Wynonna's inner old school self, totaly Zoey cool. She was so cute!!! Best concert of the year + by far! GREAT Audience, even better with a Happy Wynonna on Stage!!! GREAT NIGHT!
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@GrCent
When I have my headphones cranked, she hits these sharp notes that send chills throughout my body. That's how you know you are experiencing a quality and profoundly significant piece of music. 💜
@Tubebrerry
Wynonna's best solo ever, I think. Anyone disagree?
@pistachiosandpopcorn7146
Actually this and "I saw the Light" are my favs of hers period..solo and with the Judds. She's also my fav female country singer.
@markscott9759
Who would…….rather WHO COULD?????
@mariadmaldonado7979
100% agree
@richdouglas8969
She is one in a million ❤
@dlo7499
Totally agree
@williampack8669
Great riff at the beginning...her voice and the melody ebbs and flows like a drive down a country road...by far her best song ever
@TObbhballer
I do like I saw the light in your window tonight though 🤷🏻♂️
@gregfrommotown9082
Still listening in 2020 and still gives me goosebumps and tears...