Tender When I Want to Be
Mary Chapin Carpenter · Triple Feature [2010]
I have a heart that's proud you bet
I have a mind that won't forget
And I have arms that are strong and yet
Tender when they want to be
Well you can be the will that finds the way
And you can be the one that saves the day
But show me tender when it's time to say
Exactly how ought to be
And I never would have known it darling
If I hadn't known about you
You said everyone can be a rock
and roll like a river too
Well something happens when you find someone
Who makes you feel like you can do no wrong
No you don't have to take the whole world on
Just be tender when you want to be
And I never would have known it darling
If I hadn't known about you
You said everyone can be a rock
and roll like a river too
So let the waters carry us away
Wave goodbye to the old parade
Baby when we're unafraid
To be tender when we want to be
All the waters wash our cares away
All that we can see are better days
Don't ever let me hesitate
To be tender when I want to be
I have a mind that won't forget
And I have arms that are strong and yet
Tender when they want to be
Well you can be the will that finds the way
And you can be the one that saves the day
But show me tender when it's time to say
Exactly how ought to be
And I never would have known it darling
If I hadn't known about you
You said everyone can be a rock
and roll like a river too
Well something happens when you find someone
Who makes you feel like you can do no wrong
No you don't have to take the whole world on
Just be tender when you want to be
And I never would have known it darling
If I hadn't known about you
You said everyone can be a rock
and roll like a river too
So let the waters carry us away
Wave goodbye to the old parade
Baby when we're unafraid
To be tender when we want to be
All the waters wash our cares away
All that we can see are better days
Don't ever let me hesitate
To be tender when I want to be
Tender When I Want to Be
Mary Chapin Carpenter's 'Tender When I Want to Be' appears on her 2010 album Triple Feature, showcasing her signature blend of folk and country storytelling. The track exemplifies her ability to craft intimate narratives that explore complex emotional landscapes, a hallmark of her discography spanning decades. Carpenter's voice delivers the song with characteristic warmth and vulnerability, inviting listeners into a personal reflection on desire and self-awareness. As part of her broader body of work, this recording continues her tradition of blending acoustic instrumentation with poignant lyrics that resonate across generations of fans who appreciate her authentic approach to songwriting.