The Charley Pride I’d Rather Love You song was released in January 1971 as the first single from the album I’m Just Me. This song was Pride’s sixth song to top the U.S. country singles chart starting March 6, 1971. The single stayed at number one for three weeks, spending a total of 13 weeks on the chart.
Charley Frank Pride (March 18, 1934 – December 12, 2020) was an American singer, guitarist, and professional baseball player. During the peak years of his recording career (1966–1987), he had 52 top-10 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, 30 of which made it to number one. He won the Entertainer of the Year award at the Country Music Association Awards in 1971. Pride is one of three African-American members of the Grand Ole Opry (the others being DeFord Bailey and Darius Rucker). He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2000.
Watch the live performance video from The Johnny Cash Show in 1971 and see the song details and written lyrics below.
Charley Pride I’d Rather Love You Music Video
The song features a slow and mellow melody, with Pride’s rich baritone voice delivering the lyrics with a heartfelt sincerity. The lyrics express a simple yet powerful message of the importance of love and the desire to prioritize it above all else.
This song was written by Johnny Duncan.
Charley Pride I’d Rather Love You Lyrics
If tonight should be our last night together I’m not sorry that we fell in love at all
If tomorrow sun should find me hurtin’ for you I know
That the price for loving you would still be small
For I’d never know the thrill of your sweet lips
And the chills I get just knowing that you’re mine
‘Cause I’ve spent my life not knowing what real love is oh no
Though I’d be hurtin’ I’m still certain
That I’d rather love and lose you than never know your love at all
For I’d never know the thrill…
Yes I’d rather love and lose you than never know your love at all
Overall, “I’d Rather Love You” is a beautiful and timeless country love song that captures the essence of what it means to truly love and cherish a partner. Remember to “share” the Charley Pride I’d Rather Love You song with other Country Music fans.
