About the song
Released in 1971, “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be” was the debut single by the brilliant singer-songwriter Carly Simon, and it immediately marked her as a unique voice in the world of pop and folk music. Co-written by Simon and her friend Jacob Brackman, the song stands out for its introspective and somewhat melancholic exploration of the complexities of love and marriage—a theme that resonated deeply with the generation of the early 1970s, when societal expectations around relationships were beginning to shift.
The song was featured on Simon’s self-titled debut album, Carly Simon, and became a surprise hit, peaking at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100. This early success helped launch Simon’s career, which would later include iconic hits like “You’re So Vain” and “Anticipation.” “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be” is a far cry from the romantic optimism found in many love songs. Instead, it presents a much more realistic and bittersweet view of love, drawing from the experiences of people who felt trapped in unhappy marriages. The narrator in the song wrestles with the decision of whether to follow the traditional path of marriage, all while fearing it may lead to the same disillusionment she’s witnessed around her.
The haunting melody and Simon’s powerful yet understated vocals add to the song’s emotional weight, making it an unforgettable ballad that still speaks to listeners today. Its lyrical depth and thought-provoking nature set it apart from many of the love songs of its time, and it remains a classic example of Carly Simon’s gift for storytelling.
If you haven’t revisited “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be” in a while, it’s worth taking a moment to listen to it again. The song’s timeless message about the challenges of love and relationships still feels as relevant today as it did in 1971.
Explore more of Carly Simon’s work and dive into the rich emotional world of her music. Discover why she remains one of the most celebrated singer-songwriters of her generation. Click here to uncover more iconic songs from the 1970s, and let yourself be transported back to a time when music was filled with raw emotion and honesty!