The Meaning Behind The Song: Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad by Meat Loaf
“Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” is an iconic song by American singer Meat Loaf. Written by Jim Steinman, the track was released in 1977 as part of Meat Loaf’s album “Bat Out of Hell”. The song has become a classic rock ballad that has stood the test of time, still captivating fans all over the world.
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The song is an emotional journey that speaks to the heart of anyone who has been in a relationship that didn’t end the way they had hoped. The lyrics are full of longing, regret, and desperation, making it one of the most relatable tracks in music history.
The Story Behind The Song
Jim Steinman wrote “Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” as a tribute to Elvis Presley, whose motto was “three out of three ain’t bad.” Steinman was inspired to write the song following a conversation he had with Meat Loaf about the late rock legend. Steinman said that he had been thinking about Presley a lot, and when Meat Loaf asked him if he wanted to write a song for him, he told him about his inspiration.
The song was originally supposed to be part of a musical about baseball, but it was eventually scrapped. Instead, Steinman gave the song to Meat Loaf to record, and it became one of his biggest hits.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of the song are simple yet powerful. The chorus of the song is the most memorable part, with the repeated line “Two out of three ain’t bad.” The idea behind the lyrics is that even if a relationship isn’t perfect, as long as two out of three things are successful (love, respect, and sexual attraction), then it’s still a good relationship.
Here are some of the most iconic lyrics from the song:
“Well there’s only one girl that I will ever love
And that was so many years ago
And though I know I’ll never get her out of my heart
She never loved me back, ooh, I know”
This verse speaks to the heart of anyone who has ever loved someone who didn’t love them back. The pain of unrequited love is something that most people can relate to, and Meat Loaf’s emotional delivery makes it all the more powerful.
“I want you (I want you)
I need you (I need you)
But there ain’t no way I’m ever gonna love you
Now don’t feel sad (don’t feel sad)
‘Cause two out of three ain’t bad”
This part of the song is the most memorable, with Meat Loaf proclaiming that he wants and needs his partner, but he can’t bring himself to say that he loves them. The repetition of “two out of three ain’t bad” is a reminder that even if a relationship isn’t perfect, it can still be fulfilling.
The Music
The music of “Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” is just as iconic as the lyrics. The song starts off slow, building up to a powerful crescendo in the chorus. The guitar riff that plays throughout the song is instantly recognizable, and the backup vocals add an extra layer of emotion to the track.
Meat Loaf’s powerful voice is the centerpiece of the song, and his emotional delivery adds a depth of feeling to the lyrics. The song is a perfect example of how music can enhance the words and create a truly emotional experience.
The Legacy Of The Song
“Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” has become an iconic song that has stood the test of time. It’s been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Bon Jovi, Wilson Phillips, and Phil Collins.
The song has also been used in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials. It was featured in the movie “Wayne’s World 2,” and it was used in a commercial for Budweiser beer.
The legacy of the song is a testament to its enduring appeal. Even decades after its release, “Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” still resonates with people all over the world.
Conclusion
“Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” is a classic rock ballad that has become an iconic song in its own right. The emotional lyrics, powerful music, and Meat Loaf’s unforgettable voice have all contributed to the song’s enduring appeal.
The song is a reminder that even if a relationship isn’t perfect, as long as two out of three things are successful, then it’s still worth holding onto. The song’s legacy is a testament to its relatable message and enduring appeal, making it a classic that will continue to captivate fans for decades to come.
