"Bad Love" is the tenth studio album by American singer-songwriter Randy Newman, released on June 1, 1999. This album marked Newman’s return to solo work after a three-year hiatus during which he concentrated on film soundtracks. During this period, he received several Academy Award nominations. Bad Love continued Newman’s tradition of blending sharp, satirical lyrics with his distinctive musical style.
Bad Love showcases Randy Newman’s characteristic bitterness and satire, exploring both personal and societal issues with his signature sharpness. The album addresses various themes, such as the state of American culture in "My Country," which critiques suburbia's growing dependence on television, and "The World Isn’t Fair," which offers a perspective through the eyes of Karl Marx. Aging is another significant theme, with "Shame" depicting the complexities of an older man pursuing a younger woman, and "I’m Dead (But I Don’t Know It)" reflecting on the struggles of aging rock stars, including Newman's self-reflective lyrics about his work.
The song "Every Time It Rains" was originally composed for Michael Jackson, who ultimately chose not to record it, while "I Miss You" was written for Newman’s ex-wife.
Newman later expressed satisfaction with Bad Love, noting, "Before I started Bad Love, I wasn't exactly sure I could do a rock 'n' roll record at 65, or however old I was. But I was satisfied that it was a good record. Maybe my best record."
Bad Love was Newman's only release under DreamWorks Records.
