About the song
“A Better Man,” performed by Clint Black, is a poignant and reflective country song that marked the beginning of his illustrious career. Released in 1989 as the lead single from his debut album “Killin’ Time,” the song quickly resonated with audiences and established Black as a powerful new voice in country music.
The song was co-written by Clint Black and his long-time collaborator Hayden Nicholas. Its heartfelt lyrics delve into the introspection and personal growth that often follow the end of a relationship. Black’s thoughtful writing and emotive performance paint a vivid picture of a man emerging from heartbreak with a renewed sense of self, embodying the theme of resilience that would become a hallmark of his music.
“A Better Man” achieved significant success on the charts, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This milestone made Clint Black the first artist since Freddy Fender to have a debut single hit number one, underscoring the song’s wide appeal and the immediate impact Black had on the country music scene.
The “Killin’ Time” album, featuring “A Better Man,” became a cornerstone of 1980s and 1990s country music, eventually earning triple platinum status. The album’s blend of traditional country elements with contemporary flair helped rejuvenate the genre at a time when it was undergoing significant transformation.
Clint Black’s vocal delivery in “A Better Man” is marked by its sincerity and emotional depth, drawing listeners into the narrative and allowing them to share in the journey of personal redemption and growth. The song’s timeless quality and relatable message have ensured its lasting popularity among country music fans.
Beyond its commercial success, “A Better Man” played a crucial role in shaping Clint Black’s career and influencing the direction of country music in the late 20th century. Its enduring appeal is a testament to Black’s artistry and the song’s universal themes of growth and self-improvement. Even decades after its release, “A Better Man” continues to resonate, offering a powerful reminder of the transformative power of personal reflection and resilience.
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Lyrics
What do you say when it’s over?
I don’t know if I should say anything at all
One day we’re rollin’ in the clover
Next thing you know we take the fall
Still, I think about the years since I first met you
And the way it might have been without you here
And I don’t know if words from me can still upset you
But I’ve just gotta make this memory stand clear
I know I’m leavin’ here a better man
For knowin’ you this way
Things I couldn’t do before, now I think I can
And I’m leavin’ here a better man
I guess I always knew I couldn’t hold you
But I’d never be the one to set you free
Just like some old nursery rhyme your mama told you
You still believe in some old “meant to be”
Still, I’m leavin’ here a better man
For knowin’ you this way
Things I couldn’t do before now I think I can
And I’m leavin’ here a better man
Yes, I’m leavin’ here a better man
For knowin’ you this way
Things I couldn’t do before now I know I can
And I’m leavin’ here a better man
Yes, I’m leavin’ here a better man