Rediscover Emotion: Enjoy “I’ll Try” by Conway Twitty (1983)
Few voices in country music possess the timeless resonance and emotive depth of Conway Twitty. Known for his velvety baritone and ability to weave authentic sentiment into every line, Twitty remains one of the genre’s most respected artists. Among his many recordings, the 1983 release “I’ll Try” stands as a poignant reminder of his remarkable capacity for connection and lyrical storytelling—delivered with a restrained dignity that speaks to listeners of all generations.
Released during a period in which Twitty was already firmly established as a household name in American country music, “I’ll Try” captures the sincerity and emotional nuance that helped define the latter years of his prolific career. While Conway was known in earlier decades for songs that combined elements of both country and early rock ’n’ roll, by the 1980s, his sound had become more measured—more reflective. And “I’ll Try” embodies that sensibility to great effect.
The track invites listeners into an internal monologue, set to the gentle cadence of rustic instrumentation and classic country arrangements. Twitty’s voice arrives not as a declaration, but a quiet resolve—one that carries with it the familiar weariness and hopefulness of someone who’s lived and learned. The lyrics tell a story of effort and resilience, ringing with an honest attempt to bridge a gap, to mend something that matters. That simple, universal message—that we should “try”, even when uncertain—is what gives the song its enduring resonance.
Musically, the arrangement on “I’ll Try” complements the song’s introspective tone. The soft pedal steel guitar and modest rhythm section create an atmosphere of emotional intimacy, laying a spacious foundation for Twitty’s vocals to breathe and shine. Unlike some of the more heavily orchestrated ballads of the era, this track opts for minimalism, allowing the strength of the songwriting and the distinct warmth of Twitty’s delivery to take center stage.
What’s particularly commendable about Twitty’s performance here is its restraint. There’s no need for vocal theatrics or overstated emotion—his voice conveys a weathered sincerity that only experience can deliver. It’s the voice of someone who’s not only singing the words but also living them. For fans of classic country, this song serves as a worthwhile reminder of the emotional honesty that artists like Conway brought to the genre—long before gloss and flash became common in mainstream country music.
Even decades after its release, “I’ll Try” remains a beautifully understated piece in Twitty’s distinguished catalog. Its message still rings as clearly today as it did back in 1983: that the effort we make in our most meaningful relationships speaks louder than promises or perfection. For longtime fans and new listeners alike, this track offers four minutes of gentle reflection, wrapped in the soothing cadence of a country legend’s voice.