Introduction
The first time I heard A Broken Wing by Martina McBride, I was instantly reminded of a close friend who found the courage to break free from an emotionally abusive relationship. The song resonated deeply, not just as a beautiful melody but as an anthem of resilience and empowerment. Few country songs capture the essence of strength, survival, and hope as powerfully as this one.
About The Composition
- Title: A Broken Wing
- Songwriters: Phil Barnhart, Sam Hogin, James House
- Release Date: September 8, 1997
- Album: Evolution
- Genre: Country
Background
A Broken Wing was written by James House, Sam Hogin, and Phil Barnhart and recorded by American country singer Martina McBride. Released as the second single from her album Evolution, the song quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks in January 1998. This marked McBride’s second career No. 1 hit and solidified her reputation as a powerful vocalist in country music.
Musical Style
The song is written in C major, though McBride performs it in B major in both the studio version and live performances. It follows a 12/8 time signature, giving it a flowing and emotional feel. The verses follow a I–ii–IV–I chord progression, while the chorus transitions to vi–iii^7–ii^7–I, creating an uplifting contrast that complements the song’s empowering message.
Instrumentally, the song features:
- Acoustic & electric guitars
- Pedal steel guitar
- Piano
- Bass guitar
- Drums
The arrangement gradually builds towards the climactic final chorus, where McBride’s soaring vocals deliver the song’s emotional peak.
Lyrics Analysis
At its core, A Broken Wing tells the story of a woman in an emotionally abusive relationship who ultimately finds the strength to leave. The second verse describes her husband discovering “a letter by the window” and “curtains blowing in the breeze,” suggesting that she has either escaped or taken a tragic step.
The song’s ambiguous ending leaves room for interpretation, making it all the more powerful. Some listeners believe she has physically left the relationship, while others think the lyrics hint at something more heartbreaking. Regardless of interpretation, the song remains a symbol of freedom and personal strength.
Performance History
The song’s music video, directed by Deaton-Flanigen Productions, was filmed at The Croft House at the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. It depicts a woman trapped in an abusive marriage, mirroring the song’s lyrics. Scenes of Martina McBride singing with deep emotion are interwoven with visuals of the woman finding the strength to leave.
One of the most memorable live performances of A Broken Wing took place at the 1998 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, where McBride delivered a stunning rendition, leaving the audience in awe.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its success on the country charts, A Broken Wing has become an anthem of empowerment, especially for survivors of domestic abuse. It has been featured in television programs, covered by other artists, and used in awareness campaigns about abusive relationships. The song’s message of breaking free and finding inner strength has made it a staple in country music history.
Legacy
More than two decades after its release, A Broken Wing continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Its themes of freedom, resilience, and self-worth make it timeless. The song remains one of Martina McBride’s signature tracks and is frequently performed in her concerts, reminding listeners of the power of music to inspire and heal.
Conclusion
Personally, A Broken Wing is a song that I return to whenever I need a reminder of inner strength. McBride’s passionate delivery and the song’s powerful message make it one of the most moving country ballads of all time. If you haven’t yet experienced its full impact, I highly recommend listening to McBride’s 1998 CMA Awards performance, where her voice soars with breathtaking intensity. It’s more than just a song—it’s a statement of courage and hope
Video
Lyrics
She loved him like he was
The last man on Earth
Gave him everything she ever had
He’d break her spirit down
Then come lovin’ up on her
Give a little and take it back
She’d tell him ’bout her dreams
He’d just shoot ’em down
Lord, he loved to make her cry
“You’re crazy for believin’
You’ll never leave the ground”
He said, “Only angels know how to fly”
And with a broken wing
She still sings
She keeps an eye on the sky
With a broken wing
She carries her dreams
Man, you ought to see her fly
One Sunday morning
She didn’t go to church
He wondered why she didn’t leave
He went up to the bedroom
Found a note by the window
With the curtains blowin’ in the breeze
And with a broken wing
She still sings
She keeps an eye on the sky
With a broken wing
She carries her dreams
Man, you ought to see her fly
with a broken wing
She carries her dreams
Then you ought to see her fly (with a broken wing)