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Song Background: “New Looks From An Old Lover” is a country ballad written by Richard Mainegra and Rick Giles. It was released as a single from B.J. Thomas’ album “B.J. Thomas Country” in 1983. The song’s lyrics depict the singer’s struggle to move on from a past relationship and the lingering emotions and memories associated with an old lover. Despite time passing and new experiences, the old lover still occupies a special place in the singer’s heart.

Themes:

1. Nostalgia: The song is saturated with a sense of nostalgia as the singer recalls the past love, reflecting on how things have changed since the breakup. The lyrics convey a sense of longing for what once was.
2. Regret: The lyrics suggest a tinge of regret, as the singer has moved on and started anew but is still haunted by the memories of the old lover. The regret stems from not being able to completely let go.
3. Moving On: The song also touches on the theme of moving on and trying to create a new life with new friends and feelings. However, it conveys the complexity of this process, as old emotions and memories often resurface.
4. Change: The title itself, “New Looks From An Old Lover,” suggests that change and transformation have occurred over time, but the emotional connection remains, leading to a mix of emotions.

Musical Style: “New Looks From An Old Lover” is a country ballad with a slow tempo, and it features B.J. Thomas’ distinctive smooth and soulful vocal delivery. The song’s arrangement includes acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and soft percussion, creating a melancholic and evocative musical backdrop that complements the lyrical themes.

Legacy: The song is considered a classic in B.J. Thomas’s discography and has resonated with audiences for decades. It showcases his ability to convey deep emotion through his singing and remains a favorite for those who appreciate country music’s storytelling tradition.

In summary, “B.J. Thomas – New Looks From An Old Lover” is a timeless country ballad that delves into themes of nostalgia, regret, and the difficulty of moving on from a past love. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music to capture complex emotions and memories.

Video

Lyrics

“New Looks From An Old Lover”