Released in 1958 as the B-side to his hit single “It’s Only Make Believe,” I’ll Try initially flew under the radar. However, for those who discovered it, the song became a poignant testament to the enduring power of love and commitment.
Background
I’ll Try predates Twitty’s foray into the smoother country-politan sound that would define his later career. Here, we hear a rawer, rockabilly-tinged sound, a nod to his early rock and roll influences under the moniker “Rockin’ Sonny.” This youthful energy perfectly complements the song’s theme of a desperate plea for reconciliation.
The lyrics, penned by Jack Nance and a young Conway Twitty himself, paint a vivid picture of a love on the brink. The narrator, a man facing the potential loss of his beloved, lays bare his vulnerabilities. Lines like “The tears I cry wouldn’t fill a thimble, but the hurt inside is a mile wide” showcase a raw vulnerability seldom seen in the typically stoic persona of country music heroes.
I’ll Try is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. The simple yet effective use of similes and metaphors allows the listener to truly inhabit the narrator’s pain. The repeated refrain, “I’ll try, I’ll try, to mend the broken vow,” becomes an almost desperate mantra, a testament to his unwavering commitment to salvage the relationship.
However, I’ll Try is not merely a song about desperation. It also speaks to a profound belief in the redemptive power of love. The narrator, despite the hurt, is willing to put in the effort, to rebuild the trust that has been fractured. This unwavering faith in the possibility of renewal adds a layer of hope and optimism to the song’s overall message.
Musically, I’ll Try is a testament to the power of simplicity. The driving rhythm section, anchored by a steady backbeat and a prominent bass line, provides a foundation for Twitty’s powerful vocals. The mournful wail of the pedal steel guitar adds a layer of melancholy, perfectly capturing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
While I’ll Try may not be one of Twitty’s biggest hits, it stands as a powerful testament to his artistry. It showcases his ability to deliver raw emotion, to weave a compelling narrative through simple yet evocative lyrics, and to imbue a song with a timeless message of love, loss, and the enduring power of hope. So, the next time you explore the vast catalog of the “Dean of Country Music,” don’t miss this hidden gem. I’ll Try is a song that will stay with you long after the final note fades.
Harley