A powerful, dramatic ballad recording, it has become one of The Imperials' best-known songs, and has inspired numerous cover versions.

El Chicano released a cover of "Hurt So Bad" on their 1970 debut album Viva Tirado.

Linda Ronstadt recorded a cover of "Hurt So Bad" for her Platinum-certified album, Mad Love, in 1980.

Produced by Peter Asher on Asylum Records, it was released as the album's second single.

It stands as the most successful version ever recorded of the song, which peaked at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #9 on the Cash Box Top 100 chart in the spring of 1980.