About the Song
Reba McEntire, the undisputed queen of country music, has a knack for delivering songs that resonate with raw emotion and relatable experiences. Released in 1983 from her album Unlimited, “You’re The First Time I’ve Thought About Leaving” is a prime example of McEntire’s ability to capture the complex feelings associated with love, commitment, and the agonizing tug-of-war that ensues when a relationship starts to crumble.
This isn’t your typical honky-tonk heartbreak anthem. “You’re The First Time I’ve Thought About Leaving” delves into the psychological complexities of a woman grappling with a love that’s both deeply cherished and undeniably damaging. McEntire’s vocals, rich with a maturity and world-weariness beyond her years at the time, paint a vivid picture of a woman caught in a web of conflicting emotions. There’s a sense of resignation, a quiet acknowledgment that something is fundamentally wrong, yet there’s also a lingering tenderness for the man who has brought her both joy and pain.
The song’s brilliance lies in its subtlety. There are no dramatic accusations, no fiery displays of anger. Instead, McEntire’s delivery is marked by a haunting vulnerability. The lyrics, penned by Dickey Lee and Kerry Chater, are deceptively simple yet profoundly impactful. Lines like “It’s not your fault I’ve had to cry, it’s not your fault I’ve had to lie” speak volumes about the internal struggle of a woman trying to justify staying in a relationship that is clearly no longer serving her.
What makes this song particularly compelling for a mature audience is its exploration of long-term love and the challenges that come with it. It acknowledges that love isn’t always a fairytale, and sometimes the deepest hurts come from the person we hold closest to our hearts. It taps into the universal experience of recognizing one’s own role in a dysfunctional dynamic, the compromises we make, and the sacrifices we endure in the name of love.
“You’re The First Time I’ve Thought About Leaving” is a poignant reminder that even the strongest love can be tested. It’s a song that will resonate with anyone who has ever wrestled with the difficult decision of whether to stay or to walk away. With McEntire’s unparalleled vocal prowess and the song’s timeless message, it’s no wonder that this track continues to be a fan favorite decades after its release.