Nothing Ever Hurt Me (Half as Bad as Losing You) (song)
"Nothing Ever Hurt Me (Half as Bad as Losing You)" is a country music song written by Baker Knight and Ray Baker. It has been recorded by several artists, most notably by Jan Howard and Loretta Lynn.
The song tells the story of a narrator reflecting on a past relationship that ended. The narrator acknowledges that they have experienced pain and hardship in life, but none of those experiences compare to the pain of losing their former lover. The lyrics emphasize the profound sense of loss and the lingering emotional impact of the breakup. The title itself succinctly captures the central theme of the song: the exceptional pain caused by a specific lost love overshadows all other forms of suffering.
Jan Howard's version, released in 1968, is generally considered the definitive recording. It reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Loretta Lynn also recorded a well-known version of the song, contributing to its enduring popularity within the country music genre.
The song's enduring appeal lies in its relatable theme of heartbreak and the ability of a lost love to cause exceptional and lasting pain. It remains a staple in country music, often covered and performed by various artists.