Introduction
“It Only Hurts When I’m Breathing” is a poignant ballad by Canadian singer Shania Twain, featured on her 2002 album Up!. Co-written and produced by her then-husband, Robert John “Mutt” Lange, the song stands out as the sole heartbreak track on an album predominantly filled with upbeat tunes. Twain described it as “the only heartbreak song on the new CD,” providing listeners with a moment of introspection amidst the album’s generally optimistic tone.
Released as the eighth and final single from Up!, “It Only Hurts When I’m Breathing” debuted on country radio in the United States on February 9, 2004, and later on adult contemporary radio on March 22, 2004. The song achieved moderate commercial success, peaking at number 18 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and number 16 on the Adult Contemporary chart. In Canada, it reached number four on the Canadian Singles Chart, reflecting Twain’s widespread appeal.
The accompanying music video was crafted from a live performance at Twain’s “Up! Live in Chicago” concert special. Directed by Beth McCarthy-Miller, the video captures the song’s emotional depth, though it received limited television rotation. This led Mercury Records to promote the single with the video for “When You Kiss Me” in North America.
Musically, the track is characterized by its slow tempo and emotive lyrics, distinguishing it from the more upbeat songs on Up!. The song’s composition allows Twain’s vocal range to shine, spanning from A♭3 to D5. Despite its departure from the album’s predominant mood, “It Only Hurts When I’m Breathing” resonated with audiences, offering a heartfelt exploration of heartache and vulnerability.
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