I Try
by Macy Gray
What is “I Try” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “I Try” by Macy Gray is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
Macy Gray's song 'I Try' explores the agonizing complexity of trying to part ways with a loved one, highlighting the emotional struggle and unspoken vulnerability that comes with saying goodbye.
So… what’s this song really about?
In 'I Try', Macy Gray captures the tumultuous emotions experienced in the face of unyielding love. The lyrics poignantly depict the character's internal conflict as she attempts to sever ties with her partner, only to find herself physically and emotionally incapable of doing so. The repeated choruses emphasize a pattern of failed attempts to hide her feelings and leave, conveying a sense of inevitability and despair. The bridge of the song, where the singer asks to be her lover's possession, underlines a deep-seated dependency and longing for connection that contrasts sharply with her attempts at detachment.
The song thus serves as a raw, honest exploration of love's paradoxes—how one can desire closeness yet find it necessary to part ways. Gray's expressive delivery and the sorrowful melody enhance the reception of the song as a poignant narrative on love, loss, and the fragility of human emotions. Through its narrative, 'I Try' invites the listener to reflect on the universal challenge of navigating relationships and the often painful process of letting go, despite profound attachments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What year was 'I Try' by Macy Gray released?
'I Try' was released in 1999.
Q: What awards did 'I Try' by Macy Gray win?
The song won the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 2001.
Lyrics to “I Try”
27 ContributorsI Try Lyrics
[Pre-Chorus]
I play it off, but I'm dreaming of you
And I'll keep my cool, but I'm feigning
[Chorus]
I try to say goodbye and I choke (Yeah)
I try to walk away and I stumble
Though I try to hide it, it's clear
My world crumbles when you are not near
Goodbye and I choke (Yeah!)
I try to walk away and I stumble
Though I try to hide it, it's clear
My world crumbles when you are not near
[Bridge]
Here is my confession
May I be your possession?
Boy, I need your touch
Your love, kisses, and such
With all my might, I try
But this I can't deny
Deny
[Pre-Chorus]
I play it off, but I'm dreaming of you
(But I'm dreaming of you, babe)
I'll keep my cool, but I'm feigning
[Chorus]
I try to say goodbye and I choke (Yeah!)
I try to walk away and I stumble (Oh!)
Though I try to hide it, it's clear
My world crumbles when you are not near
Goodbye and I choke (Yeah, yeah, yeah)
I try to walk away and I stumble (Hey, yeah, yeah!)
Though I try to hide it, it's clear (Sick of love)
My world crumbles when you are not near (Love, your love, kisses ends)
Goodbye and I choke (Goodbye and I choke, yeah)
I try to walk away and I stumble
Though I try to hide it, it's clear
My world crumbles when you are not near
[Outro]
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah