“It Must Be Love” – Don Williams’ Gentle Ode to True Affection
Don Williams, affectionately known as the “Gentle Giant” of country music, brought his signature warmth and understated charm to “It Must Be Love” when he recorded the song in 1979. This heartfelt track became one of Williams’ most beloved hits, climbing to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Known for his relaxed vocal style and ability to express deep emotion without pretense, Williams’ rendition of “It Must Be Love” resonated with listeners, capturing the joy and simplicity of realizing you’re in love.
Originally written by Bob McDill, a frequent collaborator with Williams and one of country music’s most respected songwriters, “It Must Be Love” perfectly aligns with Don Williams’ style. McDill’s lyrics avoid over-the-top romantic gestures, focusing instead on the small, everyday moments that signal love—“First I get cold, then hot / Think I’m on fire, but I’m not”. Williams’ tender voice makes these lines feel honest and sincere, bringing a conversational intimacy to the song that feels like listening to an old friend talk about falling in love.
The song’s production reflects the hallmark sound of Williams: a laid-back arrangement with acoustic guitars, light percussion, and subtle steel guitar flourishes. There’s nothing rushed or flashy about it. Like much of his music, the song invites the listener to slow down and savor the moment. Williams’ effortless delivery of the chorus—“It must be love, it must be love”—perfectly encapsulates the ease with which love enters our lives, often without us realizing it until it’s already there.
Following its release on the “Expressions” album, “It Must Be Love” became a staple in Don Williams’ discography and concert repertoire. It was one of his numerous No. 1 hits during the 1970s and 1980s, contributing to his legacy as one of the most consistent and beloved artists in country music history. Williams’ ability to connect with audiences through his gentle, relatable songs earned him a loyal fan base and numerous accolades, including his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010.
One of the reasons “It Must Be Love” has endured for so long is the universality of its message. It speaks to the everyday reality of love—messy, confusing, and joyful in equal measure. Williams didn’t need grand metaphors or elaborate musical arrangements to make his point. Instead, the song’s magic lies in its simplicity and sincerity, much like the artist himself.
Over the years, “It Must Be Love” has remained a fan favorite, covered by several other artists, including Alan Jackson, whose own version charted highly in the 2000s. However, it’s Don Williams’ original recording that continues to captivate listeners, offering a reminder of what makes love so special—its ability to sneak up on us in the quiet moments and change everything. Williams’ gentle voice and the song’s easygoing melody make “It Must Be Love” not just a hit, but a timeless ode to love’s simple joys.