About the Song
“How Can I Tell Her” by Lobo is a poignant and reflective ballad that delves into the complexities of love and heartbreak. Released in 1978 as part of his album Just a Singer, the song showcases Lobo’s signature soft rock style, characterized by heartfelt lyrics and a soothing melody. Written and performed by Lobo, whose real name is George Lawrence Letts, this track captures the vulnerability of expressing one’s feelings and the challenges of navigating romantic relationships.
The lyrics of “How Can I Tell Her” express a deep sense of longing and emotional turmoil. The narrator grapples with the difficulty of conveying their feelings to a woman they care about, all while dealing with the weight of a past relationship. The heartfelt refrain of “How can I tell her I don’t want to lose her” encapsulates the fear of losing someone special and the internal struggle of wanting to communicate love while feeling uncertain about the future. This relatable theme resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet nature of love, making the song both poignant and impactful.
Musically, “How Can I Tell Her” features Lobo’s signature acoustic guitar melodies, gentle piano accompaniment, and soft percussion that create a mellow yet emotionally charged atmosphere. His warm, expressive vocals perfectly convey the song’s heartfelt message, drawing listeners into the narrative of love and longing. The arrangement allows the lyrics to shine, enhancing the emotional weight of the song while inviting introspection and reflection.
In the context of Lobo’s career, “How Can I Tell Her” is emblematic of his ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with accessible melodies. Rising to fame in the early 1970s, Lobo became known for his introspective songs that often explored themes of love, loss, and longing. Following the success of this track, he continued to produce hits that resonated with audiences, solidifying his place in the soft rock genre.
Today, “How Can I Tell Her” remains a cherished classic, often featured in nostalgia playlists and classic rock radio stations. Its themes of love, vulnerability, and the complexities of relationships continue to resonate with listeners, ensuring its enduring appeal. The song serves as a reminder of the challenges of expressing emotions and the universal experience of navigating love’s ups and downs.
In summary, Lobo’s “How Can I Tell Her” is a beautifully crafted ballad that encapsulates the emotional depth of love and longing. With its heartfelt lyrics, soothing melody, and Lobo’s expressive vocal delivery, the song stands out as a timeless classic in the landscape of soft rock music. Its ability to evoke feelings of vulnerability and introspection ensures that it will continue to touch the hearts of listeners for years to come, solidifying its place in the canon of beloved love songs.
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Lyrics: “How Can I Tell Her”
She knows when I’m lonesome, she cries when I’m sad
She’s up in the good times, she’s down in the bad
Whenever I’m discouraged, she knows just what to do
But girl she doesn’t know about you.I can tell her my troubles, she makes them all seem right
I can make up excuses not to hold her at night
We can talk of tomorrow, I’ll tell her things that I want to do
But girl how can I tell her about you.How can I tell her about you
Girl please tell me what to do
Everything seems right whenever I’m with you
So girl won’t you tell me how to tell her about you.How can I tell her I don’t miss her whenever I’m away
How can I say it’s you I think of every single night and day
But when is it easy telling someone we’re through
Ah girl help me tell her about you.