About the song
“I Don’t Want to Talk About It” is a profound ballad that has touched the hearts of listeners through its emotional depth and haunting melody. Originally penned by American guitarist Danny Whitten, the song first appeared on the eponymous 1971 album by the rock band Crazy Horse, where it was featured as the final track on the album’s first side. Whitten’s version, imbued with raw sincerity, was a poignant showcase of his songwriting and vocal talents, with the song quickly becoming a signature piece for him.
However, it was British rock star Rod Stewart’s cover that brought the song to international prominence. Stewart recorded the track at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Sheffield, Alabama, for his 1975 album *Atlantic Crossing*. Released as a single in March 1977, it was strategically paired as a double A-side with “The First Cut Is the Deepest.” The timing of this release, amidst a competitive music landscape, was seen by some as a strategic move to ensure the song’s success and to overshadow other chart contenders, notably the Sex Pistols’ controversial “God Save the Queen.” This maneuver proved effective, as “I Don’t Want to Talk About It” topped the UK Singles Chart, marking a significant milestone in Stewart’s career.
In the U.S., Stewart’s version was released later in December 1979, as part of his *Greatest Hits* album promotion. Though it did not achieve the same level of chart success in America, peaking at number 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 44 on the Adult Contemporary chart, it remained a staple in Stewart’s repertoire.
Rod Stewart’s rendition of “I Don’t Want to Talk About It” has been revisited multiple times. Notably, in 1989, Stewart recorded a new version for his anthology *Storyteller – The Complete Anthology: 1964–1990*, which was included in the compilation *Downtown Train – Selections from the Storyteller Anthology*. This new version received significant airplay on adult contemporary stations, reaching number two on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.
The song has also been a fixture in Stewart’s live performances, including a notable duet with Amy Belle during his 2004 tour, and it has amassed considerable attention on digital platforms. As of January 2024, the official music video for this performance has garnered over 912 million views on YouTube, reflecting its enduring appeal.
“I Don’t Want to Talk About It” continues to resonate with audiences due to its evocative lyrics and Stewart’s heartfelt delivery. Its success across various charts and its inclusion in Stewart’s live performances underscore its lasting impact and the universal connection it forges with listeners, solidifying its place as a timeless ballad in the annals of music history.
Video
Lyrics
I can tell by your eyes
That you’ve probably been cryin’ forever
And the stars in the sky
Don’t mean nothin’ to you, they’re a mirror
I don’t wanna talk about it
How you broke my heart
If I stay here just a little bit longer
If I stay here, won’t you listen to my heart?
Oh, whoa, heart
If I stand all alone
Will the shadow hide the color of my heart?
Blue for the tears, black for the night’s
Fears the stars in the sky
Don’t mean nothin’ to you, they’re a mirror
I don’t wanna talk about it
How you broke my heart
If I stay here just a little bit longer
If I stay here, won’t you listen to my heart?
Oh, my heart
I don’t wanna talk about it
How you broke this old heart
If I stay here just a little bit longer
If I stay here, won’t you listen to my heart?
Oh, my heart
My heart
Oh, my heart