About the Song

“I Can’t Tell You Why” is a track from the Eagles’ 1979 album The Long Run, notable for its reflective and melancholic tone. The song delves into the fragility of relationships, focusing on a couple in the midst of an emotional breakdown. The lyrics explore the tensions and unresolved issues between the couple, with no clear resolution, leaving the listener in a state of uncertainty. The song fades out without reconciliation or separation, amplifying the feeling of emotional ambivalence.

Songwriting and Performance
Written by Timothy B. Schmit, Don Henley, and Glenn Frey, “I Can’t Tell You Why” was co-penned by Schmit, who was relatively new to the band at the time, having replaced Randy Meisner in 1977. Schmit explained in a 2011 interview that he brought a partial melody to Henley and Frey, who helped shape it into the final version. The song’s lyrics were loosely inspired by Schmit’s personal experiences, making it one of the more intimate tracks on the album.

Vocals and Arrangement
Timothy B. Schmit took lead vocals on this song, a departure from the band’s usual lead singers Henley and Frey. His smooth, emotive delivery of the lyrics complements the song’s mellow, yet emotional atmosphere. The arrangement is laid-back, with a soft groove and gentle instrumentation, including acoustic guitars, subtle percussion, and a rich string section that enhances the song’s introspective quality.

Success and Legacy
Released as a single in February 1980, “I Can’t Tell You Why” became a major hit, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 3 on the Adult Contemporary chart. It became the Eagles’ final top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, marking the end of an era for the band. The song’s bittersweet lyrics and Schmit’s heartfelt performance resonated with listeners, making it one of the band’s most beloved tracks.

As part of The Long Run album, “I Can’t Tell You Why” captures the Eagles at a pivotal point in their career, blending their signature rock sound with a more introspective, mellow vibe.

Lyrics

Look at us baby, up all night
Tearing our love apart
Aren’t we the same two people
Who lived through years in the dark?
Every time I try to walk away
Something makes me turn around and stay
And I can’t tell you why
When we get crazy, it just ain’t right
(Try to keep your head, little girl)
Girl, I get lonely too
You don’t have to worry, just hold on tight
(Don’t get caught in your little world)
Cause I love you
Nothing’s wrong as far as I can see
We make it harder than it has to be
And I can’t tell you why
No baby, I can’t tell you why
I can’t tell you why
Every time I try to walk away
Something makes me turn around and stay
And I can’t tell you why
No, no baby, I can’t tell you why
I can’t tell you why
I can’t tell you why, no

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