Released: 2012
Lee Brice’s ‘Hard to Love’ is a heartfelt confession of a man acknowledging his flaws and appreciating the unwavering love he receives despite them. The song paints a picture of a flawed individual who is aware of his shortcomings, yet is amazed by the grace and patience of his partner who continues to love him unconditionally.
The opening lines, ‘I am insensitive, I have a tendency to pay more attention to the things that I need,’ is a frank admission of self-centeredness. Brice admits to being more focused on his own needs, which can often come off as insensitive.
‘Sometimes I drink too much, sometimes I test your trust,’ he confesses to his vices and how they might strain the relationship. Drinking too much and testing trust are common issues in relationships, and Brice doesn’t shy away from acknowledging his part in it.
The chorus, ‘I’m hard to love, hard to love, oh, I don’t make it easy,’ is a repeated acknowledgment of his difficult nature. Yet, he expresses gratitude for his partner’s love, saying, ‘I don’t deserve it, but I love that you love me good.’
‘I am a short fuse, I am a wreckin’ ball, crashin’ into your heart like I do,’ Brice compares himself to a wrecking ball, implying his actions can cause emotional damage. Yet, he admires his partner’s grace and wishes he could be more like her.
‘Girl, you’ve given me a million-second chances and I don’t ever wanna take you for granted,’ shows his appreciation for her patience and the numerous chances she’s given him. It’s a promise to not take her love for granted.
The song is a testament to the power of unconditional love and the beauty of accepting one’s flaws. It’s a raw and honest portrayal of a man who knows he’s hard to love, but is grateful for the love he receives.
