Introduction
In 2014, beloved country star Ronnie Dunn—one half of the iconic Brooks & Dunn duo—released “Heart Letting Go” on his solo album Peace, Love and Country Music, through his own label, Little Will‑E Records . Written by Chris Stapleton and Al Anderson, the song was never officially released by Stapleton himself—though he performed it live in 2012 during a benefit at Nashville’s Station Inn, teasing it might “come out someday” .
Dunn’s recording is the only known commercial version. Though it wasn’t issued as a single, listeners and critics have praised Dunn’s rendering as one of the standout gems on his second solo album . Fans often refer to it as “a best‑kept secret in country music”, thanks to its emotional ache and Dunn’s powerhouse vocals capturing the raw emotional weight of letting go in love.
With poignant lyrics and a melancholic melody, “Heart Letting Go” tells a story of emotional disconnection and the difficult decision to release love when it’s no longer reciprocated. Lines like “I don’t see the same look in your eyes… I can’t feel the hunger in your touch” illustrate the growing distance between two lovers . Dunn’s delivery emphasizes vulnerability, turning the song into a deeply felt ballad that resonates with those who have faced similar heartbreak.
This performance fits within Dunn’s broader solo trajectory. After decades of mainstream success with Brooks & Dunn, Dunn struck out on his own—first in 2011 with his self‑titled album, then in 2014 releasing Peace, Love and Country Music, an album he described as more introspective and personally grounded .
“Heart Letting Go” stands as an emotional highlight from Peace, Love and Country Music: a heartfelt interpretation of a song written by Chris Stapleton that showcases Dunn’s mature vocal power and his ability to bring heartfelt intimacy to every line.
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Lyrics
don’t see the same look in your eyes
One that used to say we’re meant to be
I can’t feel the hunger in your touch
You used to tell me I’m all you need
It’s hard to stay or leaving her first
I’m not sure which one is the worst
Cause tonight I’ll hold the love I used to know
Listen to a heart letting go
Just how long it’s been I can’t recall
Since I felt the warmth of your kiss
Though all the little things you used to do
Are all the things that I already miss
It’s hard to stay leaving her first
I’m not sure which one is the worst
Cause tonight I’ll hold the love I used to know
Listen to a heart letting go
You decide to say goodbye
How am I suppose to live without you, I don’t know
Don’t know why I’m holding on
We both know that you’re already gone
It’s hard to stay or leaving her first
I’m not sure which one is the worst
Cause tonight I’ll hold the love I used to know
Listen to a heart letting go
Yeah, tonight I’ll hold the love I used to know
Listen to a heart letting go . . A heart letting go