Introduction
“A Woman’s Love” is a poignant track from Willie Nelson’s 2017 album, God’s Problem Child. The song delves into the profound depth and strength of a woman’s love, highlighting its unparalleled impact on the human experience. Nelson’s evocative lyrics and soulful delivery offer listeners a heartfelt exploration of this universal theme.
The song was released as the lead single from God’s Problem Child, premiering on February 14, 2017, aptly aligning with Valentine’s Day. This strategic release date underscored the song’s romantic essence and showcased Nelson’s ability to connect deeply with his audience’s emotions. The accompanying music video further enhanced the song’s narrative, providing visual storytelling that resonated with fans and critics alike.
God’s Problem Child marked a significant milestone in Nelson’s illustrious career. Upon its release, the album debuted at number one on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, with 36,000 album-equivalent units and 34,000 pure sales. This achievement underscored Nelson’s enduring relevance in the country music scene and his ability to craft songs that resonate across generations. Critics lauded the album, noting an improvement in Nelson’s vocal performance compared to his earlier releases. Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic awarded the album four out of five stars, highlighting its understated richness that deepened with each listen. Rolling Stone praised Nelson’s renewed purpose as a lyricist, emphasizing the heightened vulnerability in his vocals.
The song’s appeal extended beyond Nelson’s own rendition. In 2018, country artist Ronnie Milsap collaborated with Nelson to record a duet version of “A Woman’s Love” for Milsap’s album, The Duets. Milsap expressed admiration for Nelson, stating, “He’s a real singer’s singer, and as a songwriter, he finds the nuance that exists, not just the words and the notes.” This collaboration highlighted the song’s versatility and its ability to connect with artists across the country music spectrum.
The song’s lyrical content reflects Nelson’s introspective songwriting style. He muses on the complexities of love, acknowledging its power to elevate and devastate. Lines such as “A woman’s love is stronger than a man’s / and it can hold your heart in the palm of its hands” encapsulate the song’s central theme. The track’s arrangement, featuring Nelson’s signature guitar work and harmonica accents, complements the emotive lyrics, creating a listening experience that is both soothing and thought-provoking.
In essence, “A Woman’s Love” stands as a testament to Willie Nelson’s enduring artistry. The song captures the timeless nature of love and showcases Nelson’s ability to translate complex emotions into relatable narratives. Its inclusion in God’s Problem Child adds depth to the album, solidifying Nelson’s place as a master storyteller in the country music genre.