More than a friendship, the country hitmaker Darryl Worley tells the story of losing a precious loved one in one of his singles, “I Miss My Friend.” It was featured as the first title track on his second studio album of the same name, which later peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs in September 2002. 

The song became popular for its theme of grief and remembrance, combined with Worley’s passionate vocals, and gained a favorable response from critics. His honest depiction of longing and love is a tribute to his late friend who he had fallen in love with. 

Regarded as one of Worley’s highest charted hits, “I Miss My Friend” was nominated at the 38th Annual Country Music Associations Awards as Song of the Year.

A Friend and a Lover

Darryl Worley’s “I Miss My Friend” elicits an emotional reaction from listeners for its powerful interpretation of the ballad. As the song starts with a dramatic piano, Worley openly describes the details he misses about his significant other, from the color of her eyes to how his soul confided in her. He reflects upon the weight he carries of losing a lover who was a great friend to him first. This signifies a greater love beyond friendship and romance that translates to unbearable pain and grief when the partner involved dies.

“I Miss My Friend” may sound like a typical post-breakup ballad, but Darryl Worley was inspired by a personal experience of losing two of his friends. He fell in love with an older woman with a 9-year-old daughter. He initially intended to introduce the woman to his mother as their relationship developed. Unfortunately, they got killed in a car accident before they got to meet in person. 

“There was no closure,” Worley expressed. “No chance to say goodbye. She went away and left this feeling in my heart. It was horrible.”

The record was written by Tom Shapiro, Mark Nesler, and Tony Martin, while Shaun Silva directed the music video where Worley plays his guitar in front of a woman. During the first scenes, it was filmed as though the woman was watching him perform, but it was later revealed that she was watching a preview of her and him on the TV. Worley then walks away and disappears into the light.

With the help of Silva, Worley was able to pour out all the emotions he had for his friends in the video, saying, “It was therapy. It was like a million pounds were being lifted from my shoulders.”

Although Worley was not involved in the writing process, he was able to display a distinctive portrayal of romantic remorse. So, watch as Worley takes you on a sentimental dive through the video below.