About the song
Mary MacGregor’s “Torn Between Two Lovers” is a soft rock ballad from the mid-1970s that resonates deeply with its emotional and relatable subject matter. Released in 1976 as the lead single from her debut album of the same name, this song became an unexpected but massive hit, catapulting MacGregor into the spotlight.
The song was written by Peter Yarrow of the folk group Peter, Paul, and Mary, and songwriter Phillip Jarrell. “Torn Between Two Lovers” tells the poignant story of a woman grappling with the emotional conflict of loving two people at once. The lyrics, heartfelt and honest, explore the complexity of human relationships, particularly the pain and guilt of trying to navigate conflicting emotions. MacGregor’s tender, vulnerable vocals were perfectly suited to the song, giving it an intimate, confessional feel that connected with listeners on a deep level.
“Torn Between Two Lovers” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1977, where it stayed for two weeks. It also topped the Adult Contemporary chart and became a hit in several other countries, making MacGregor an international star. Despite the success of this song, she would never again reach the same level of commercial fame, making “Torn Between Two Lovers” a defining moment in her career.
The song’s success was due in part to its raw emotional content, combined with MacGregor’s soft, gentle delivery. Even today, “Torn Between Two Lovers” remains a beloved classic, speaking to the universal themes of love, choice, and heartache.