I try to say I love you/ 
But the words get in the way.

Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine were soft rock staples in the 1980s. “Words Get in the Way” was their one classic. Estefan imagines talking to her ex.  He is seeing someone new. She still feels deeply about him.

She remembers his quirks: his moodiness that he sometimes tries to hide and knows she knows him better than the new girl. She has so much to say to him. She knows she feels more love for him than the new woman. If only she can get the words out.

In the second part of Gloria Estefan’s ”Words Get in the Way” we find out part of her hesitancy might because she knows she is not right for him and “it’s time to set you free.” Maybe she was wrong, and she doesn’t know him as well as she thought. In the end she doesn’t say anything.

“Words Get in the Way“ is a beautiful song that many can relate to. Estefan’s voice is amazing and she sings the song in an understated way: a lot of the divas during this time period (and since) would go on crazy runs just to show off their vocal prowess. Estefan keeps it simple and delivers a classic. The percussion should be pointed out. Estefan’s songs are always strong on percussion and this song is no different. It helps create her signature Latin American sound.

Words Get in the Way Lyrics

I realize you’re seeing someone new
But I don’t believe she knows you like I do
Your temperamental moody side
The one you always try to hide from me

But I know when you’ve got something on your mind
You’ve been trying to tell me for the longest time
But before you break my heart in two
There’s something I’ve been trying to say to you

But the words get in the way
There’s so much I want to say
But it’s locked deep inside and if you look in my eyes
We might fall in love again

I won’t even start to cry
Before we say goodbye
I’m trying to say I love you
But the words get in the way

Your heart has always been an open door
But baby I don’t even know you anymore
And despite the fact it’s hurting me
I know the time has come to set you free

But the words get in the way
There’s so much I want to say
But it’s locked deep inside and if you look in my eyes
We might fall in love again

I won’t even start to cry
Before we say goodbye
I’m trying to say I love you
But the words get in the way

I’m trying to say I love you
But the words get in the way

Songwriters: Gloria M. Estefan