“I Try” by Macy Gray is a soulful, emotionally raw ballad that became her breakout hit in 1999. Released as the second single from her debut album On How Life Is, the song introduced the world to Gray’s distinctive, raspy voice and her unique blend of neo-soul, R&B, pop, and jazz.
From the very first lines, the song pulls you in with its vulnerability. It’s about struggling to move on from someone you still love, pretending you’re okay, and then falling apart the moment you’re alone. The chorus—“I try to say goodbye and I choke / Try to walk away and I stumble”—is unforgettable, capturing that universal feeling of heartbreak with striking honesty.
Musically, it’s built around a mellow groove, gentle strings, and a laid-back rhythm section, giving Gray’s vocals the space to shine. Her delivery is emotive and unpolished in the best way, making every line feel like it’s coming straight from the heart. It’s that rare kind of performance that feels both intimate and powerful.
“I Try” was released in September 1999 (January 2000 in North America). It was a massive success, reaching No. 1 in Australia, No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 6 in the UK, and charting across the globe. It earned Macy Gray a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, and was nominated for Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
Even years later, “I Try” holds up as a modern soul classic—a song that’s as catchy as it is heartbreaking, and one that still resonates with anyone who’s ever tried to be strong while falling apart inside.