“Said I Loved You…But I Lied” is a song by American singer Michael Bolton, released in October 1993 with “Soul Provider” on the B-side as the lead single from his album “The One Thing.” The song is a powerful ballad that showcases Bolton’s distinctive vocal style and ability to convey deep emotion through music.
Michael Bolton co-wrote “Said I Loved You…But I Lied” with songwriter and producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange, known for his work with artists like Def Leppard and Shania Twain. The collaboration resulted in a song that blends pop, rock, and adult contemporary influences, creating a sound that is both accessible and emotionally resonant.
The lyrics of “Said I Loved You…But I Lied” explore the theme of intense and profound love. The title itself is a twist, suggesting a confession of deceit, but it quickly becomes clear that the phrase means the love he feels is beyond what the word “love” can express. The chorus, “Said I loved you but I lied, ’cause this is more than love I feel inside,” emphasizes the depth of his emotions, indicating that his feelings transcend conventional expressions of love. Musically, the song features a lush arrangement with a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, a steady rhythm section, and orchestral elements that enhance its dramatic feel. Bolton’s powerful and passionate vocal delivery is the centerpiece, conveying the intensity and sincerity of the lyrics. The production by Lange ensures a polished and dynamic sound, making it a standout track in Bolton’s discography.
“Said I Loved You…But I Lied” was a commercial success, particularly in the United States. It reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks chart for 12 weeks, showcasing its broad appeal across different audiences. The song also performed well internationally, reaching the top five in several countries, including Canada and Australia.
The music video for “Said I Loved You…But I Lied,” directed by Rebecca Blake, features scenic landscapes, including deserts and oceans, which symbolize the vast and overwhelming nature of the singer’s emotions. Interspersed with shots of Bolton singing passionately, the video enhances the song’s emotional impact through its visually stunning and dramatic imagery.