About the song
“I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” the debut studio album by Helen Reddy, marks a pivotal moment in her career as a singer-songwriter. Released on May 10, 1971, under Capitol Records, this album not only introduced Reddy to the American music scene but also set the stage for her subsequent rise to fame.
The album’s standout track, an early rendition of “I Am Woman,” foreshadowed its later transformation into a feminist anthem. Despite its initial reception, which was relatively modest compared to its future acclaim, the song’s essence as an empowering ballad was already evident. AllMusic’s Charles Donovan reflected on this, highlighting how even in its early form, “I Am Woman” possessed an inherent anthemic quality that would resonate powerfully with audiences in the years to come.
The album’s lead single, “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” originally from the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, marked Reddy’s breakthrough in the United States. Released on January 4, 1971, the single quickly gained traction, entering the Billboard Hot 100 just a month later. Its success spurred Capitol Records to greenlight a full album, recognizing Reddy’s potential as a vocalist capable of melding pop sensibilities with deeper, more emotional themes.
Another notable single from the album was Reddy’s cover of Van Morrison’s “Crazy Love,” which further showcased her versatility as an interpreter of diverse musical styles. This track, while not achieving the same level of commercial success as “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” demonstrated Reddy’s ability to infuse soulful renditions with her distinctive pop vocal style.
Critically, the album received retrospective acclaim for its early exploration of Reddy’s vocal capabilities and its prescient inclusion of themes that would define her later career. Robert Christgau’s review underscored Reddy’s approach, noting her clear, pop-oriented voice against the backdrop of songs originally conceived in more rock-infused styles.
On November 27, 1974, “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” achieved Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America, marking its enduring popularity and influence. Decades later, the album’s significance was reaffirmed when it was reissued on compact disc in 2005, alongside Reddy’s self-titled follow-up, ensuring its legacy would continue to be appreciated by new generations of listeners.
In conclusion, “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” stands as a testament to Helen Reddy’s early artistic vision and her ability to resonate with audiences through both powerful ballads and soulful interpretations. It laid the foundation for her future successes and remains a cherished part of her musical legacy.
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Lyrics
I don’t know how to love him
What to do, how to move him
I’ve been changed, yes, really changed
In these past few days when I’ve seen myself
I seem like someone else
I don’t know how to take this
I don’t see why he moves me
He’s a man, he’s just a man
And I’ve had so many men before
In very many ways
He’s just one more
Should I bring him down?
Should I scream and shout?
Should I speak of love?
Let my feelings out?
I never thought I’d come to this
What’s it all about?
Don’t you think it’s rather funny
I should be in this position?
I’m the one who’s always been
So calm, so cool, no lover’s fool
Running every show
He scares me so
I never thought I’d come to this
What’s it all about?
What’s it all about?
If he said he loved me
I’d be lost, I’d be frightened
I couldn’t cope, just couldn’t cope
I’d turn my head, I’d back away
I wouldn’t want to know
He scares me so
Oh, I want him so
I love him so