Harry Chapin: The Story Behind "I Wanna Learn A Love Song"

Introduction

Harry Chapin was an American singer-songwriter who became popular in the 1970s. One of his most memorable songs is “I Wanna Learn a Love Song,” which was released in 1978. The song was a hit and remains a favorite among Chapin’s fans.

The Inspiration for the Song

Chapin was known for his storytelling in his songs, and “I Wanna Learn a Love Song” is no exception. The inspiration for the song came from Chapin’s desire to learn to play the guitar. In an interview, Chapin said that he wanted to learn to play the guitar to impress a girl he was interested in.

The Lyrics

The lyrics of the song are simple yet powerful. They tell the story of a man who wants to learn a love song to win the heart of a woman he loves. The lyrics are as follows: “I wanna learn a love song, I wanna hear from the same voice you’re speaking, The heart that brought me to you, Is gonna keep me here, Don’t let your fears push me away.”

The Music

The music for “I Wanna Learn a Love Song” is simple yet catchy. The song features Chapin’s signature finger-picking style on the guitar. The melody is upbeat and easy to sing along with, making it a favorite among fans.

The Message

The message behind “I Wanna Learn a Love Song” is one of love and dedication. The song encourages listeners to put in the effort to win the heart of someone they love. It also reminds us that love is worth fighting for and that we should never let our fears get in the way of our happiness.

The Legacy

Harry Chapin passed away in 1981, but his music lives on. “I Wanna Learn a Love Song” remains a beloved song among Chapin’s fans, and its message continues to resonate with listeners today. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Joan Baez and Judy Collins.

Conclusion

“I Wanna Learn a Love Song” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners. Its simple yet powerful message of love and dedication is one that will never go out of style. Harry Chapin may be gone, but his music lives on, and “I Wanna Learn a Love Song” is a testament to his talent as a songwriter.