The Real Meaning Behind “Leather and Lace” By Stevie Nicks and Don Henley

If you’ve ever been to a karaoke night, chances are you’ve heard or even sung “Leather and Lace.” This beautiful, emotional duet between Stevie Nicks and Don Henley is a perfect blend of poetic lyrics and a melody that sticks with you.

Originally, Nicks wrote the song for country legend Waylon Jennings and his wife Jessi Colter. But when Nicks and Henley recorded it themselves, their version became the classic that everyone knows today.

The Meaning Behind the Lyrics

“Is love so fragile and the heart so hollow? / Shatter with words, impossible to follow / You’re saying I’m fragile, try not to be / I search only for something I can’t see / I have my own life / And I am stronger than you know”

As always, Nicks weaves her trademark poetic style into every line. The opening lines feel almost like a Shakespeare play rather than a pop song. Her lyrics explore the pain of uncertainty and heartbreak. “I search only for something I can’t see” hints at the impossible quest for perfect love.

Since Nicks and Henley were romantically involved at the time, the emotion in this song feels even more raw and real.

Henley’s Honest Response

“Sometimes I’m a strong man / Sometimes cold and scared / And sometimes I cry / But that time I saw you / I knew with you to light my nights / Somehow I’d get by”

When Henley takes over, he responds with vulnerability. He admits that even strong people have weak moments, and it’s Nicks’ love that gives him strength to carry on through life’s ups and downs.

Two Worlds, One Love

“Lovers forever, face to face / My city, your mountains / Stay with me, stay / I need you to love me / I need you today / Give to me your leather / Take from me my lace”

The chorus sums up the heart of “Leather and Lace.” Nicks describes two people from different worlds—“my city, your mountains”—yet deeply connected. The title metaphor, “give to me your leather / take from me my lace,” speaks of compromise. It’s a plea to merge toughness and softness, independence and intimacy, to make their love work.

This timeless duet continues to resonate with fans everywhere, capturing the beauty and challenge of real relationships.