[4] AllMusic reviewer Stephen Thomas Erlewine described "I Need a Lover" as Mellencamp's "first good song".

[2] Cash Box said that "Cougar's gutsy, forthright vocals and lyrics are nicely backed by passionate guitar and a footstomping, hell-raising beat.

"[5] Record World said that "Cougar's midwestern roots grow into urban urgency on this explosive rocker.

"[6] On his inspiration for writing "I Need a Lover", Mellencamp said: "The song's about a friend of mine who goes to Concordia College.

The song became an album-oriented rock radio hit for the singer and has been part of the live set list on tour.