About the Song
Reba McEntire, the undisputed queen of country music, has a knack for delivering songs that resonate deeply with listeners. Her voice, a powerful instrument capable of conveying a vast range of emotions, has brought to life countless stories of love, loss, and resilience. Among her extensive repertoire, “I Know How He Feels” stands out as a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the bittersweet pain of watching someone you love fall for another.
Released in 1994 as part of her album “Read My Mind,” the song quickly climbed the charts, capturing the hearts of fans with its relatable narrative and McEntire’s soulful delivery. “I Know How He Feels” tells the story of a woman observing the man she loves deeply enamored with another woman. She watches from the sidelines, silently enduring the agony of seeing her own feelings reflected in his eyes, but directed towards someone else. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her internal struggle, the longing mixed with resignation, as she acknowledges the reality of her situation.
What makes this song so compelling is its raw honesty. McEntire doesn’t shy away from portraying the vulnerability and sadness that come with unrequited love. Lines like “And I know how he feels when she’s in his arms, I can see it in his eyes” cut straight to the heart, capturing the universal experience of yearning for someone who remains out of reach. The song’s power lies in its simplicity; there are no grand pronouncements or dramatic twists, just a quiet observation of a painful truth.
Musically, “I Know How He Feels” is a classic country ballad. The gentle acoustic guitar and the mournful steel guitar create a melancholic atmosphere that perfectly complements McEntire’s emotive vocals. Her voice, rich and nuanced, conveys the song’s emotional depth with remarkable subtlety. The melody, both haunting and beautiful, lingers in the listener’s mind long after the song has ended.
“I Know How He Feels” is a testament to McEntire’s ability to connect with her audience on a deeply personal level. It’s a song that speaks to anyone who has ever loved and lost, reminding us that even in our pain, we are not alone. McEntire’s masterful interpretation, combined with the song’s timeless theme, ensures that “I Know How He Feels” will continue to resonate with listeners for generations to come.