About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Ain't Love a Bitch" is a captivating and soulful song by the iconic British rock singer Rod Stewart, released as the title track of his 1978 album. Known for his distinctive raspy voice and ability to infuse emotion into his performances, Stewart delivers a powerful narrative in this track that explores the complexities of love and relationships.
The song opens with a bluesy and melodic guitar riff, setting the tone for the introspective journey that follows. Stewart's gravelly yet expressive vocals immediately draw the listener in, conveying a mix of vulnerability and resilience. As the lyrics unfold, "Ain't Love a Bitch" becomes a candid exploration of the highs and lows of romantic entanglements.
Stewart's storytelling prowess shines through in the vivid and relatable lyrics. He doesn't shy away from addressing the challenges and heartaches that often accompany love. The title itself is a bold declaration, suggesting that love, despite its beauty and allure, can also be demanding and unforgiving. The use of the word "bitch" adds a touch of rawness, underscoring the sometimes tumultuous nature of romantic relationships.
Musically, the song blends elements of rock, blues, and soul, showcasing Stewart's versatility as an artist. The arrangement features a dynamic interplay of guitars, keyboards, and horns, creating a rich and textured sound. The energetic rhythm and Stewart's passionate delivery contribute to the song's overall intensity, making it a standout track in his extensive catalog.
The chorus, with its catchy and anthemic quality, reinforces the central theme of the song. The repeated refrain of "Ain't love a bitch" becomes a mantra that encapsulates the bittersweet essence of love. It's a phrase that resonates with anyone who has experienced the rollercoaster of emotions that often accompanies romantic relationships. Despite the challenges, there's an undeniable acknowledgment of the allure and power that love holds over individuals.
One of the strengths of "Ain't Love a Bitch" lies in its relatability. Stewart's lyrics capture the nuances of love's complexities, from the heady excitement of infatuation to the inevitable heartbreaks that can follow. The song doesn't romanticize or sugarcoat the realities of love but instead presents them with honesty and authenticity.
In the context of Rod Stewart's career, "Ain't Love a Bitch" represents a point where he continued to evolve as an artist. The late '70s marked a period of experimentation for Stewart, and this song showcases his ability to blend rock sensibilities with a more soulful and bluesy sound.
In conclusion, "Ain't Love a Bitch" stands as a testament to Rod Stewart's ability to capture the complexities of human emotions through his music. With its compelling lyrics, soulful delivery, and dynamic musical arrangement, the song remains a timeless exploration of the multifaceted nature of love. It's a track that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love, acknowledging both its challenges and its undeniable allure.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
Been in pain and I've been in shame
But ain't love a bitch
I been in fights, locked away for nights
But ain't love a bitch
I been tailed, impaled, strung up
And nailed and left without a stitch
I been scratched 'n' taxed 'n' finally axed
But ain't love a bitch
Oh I didn't understand till I was seventeen
She took me way upstairs and she wiped me clean
Oh I didn't realize she made a first class fool out of me
Oh Maggie if you're still out there the rest is history
You're all alone in the freezing cold
By the underground
Your hands are numb and you're feeling dumb
Cos you been let down
You thought you were rough and kinda tough
And maybe out of reach
You're acting chic, playing hide 'n' seek
But ain't love a bitch
Oh I must state right here I been there before
My eyes were closed and so my friends
I still don't know the score
Oh don't underestimate the strength of it
It may be unwise to analyze even the cause of it
You're driving home late one night and on the radio
Comes an old familiar song you used to know so well
(you know a lot about that)
Oh I can't comprehend this thing called love
Maybe it's a matter of fact I just can't grow up
Deep down ain't we all a little juvenile
All I really wanna know is there one sweet angel
That can make me smile
Ain't love a bitch
Torrential rains, wars and hurricanes
I wouldn't budge an inch
Your rent's unpaid and your team lose again
But ain't love a bitch
You can lose your job, your home and your health
But ain't love a bitch
Take it or leave it some day you'll feel it
'cos love is the bitch
Ain't love the bitch, ain't love a bitch
Ain't love a bitch, ain't love a bitch
Ain't love a bitch