Changes

This is the original version. The song features lo-fi spoken word parts, reminiscent of those on "[[I Do Not Want This]]". It also utilizes an instrument called the Luminist Garden, which was also used on the ''[[Gone Girl Soundtrack]]''. In the aforementioned podcast, it's explained that the instrument was partially meant to evoke the sound of tapping fingers on a tabletop, as a reflection of the nervousness and anxiety inherent in addiction.

Released on a three-track CD-R promo from Capitol Records. Slightly different, unmastered version of the final track. Two notable differences are that the vocals are aligned with the beat differently, and the spoken word portions are somewhat clearer. This track may be unofficial.

Released on a three-track CD-R promo from Capitol Records. Instrumental of the "main" version. This track may be unofficial.

Released on a three-track CD-R promo from Capitol Records. Acapella of the "main" version. This track may be unofficial.

This version of the song was filmed and recorded during the July 2017 rehearsals for the [[I Can't Seem To Wake Up 2017]] tour. The spoken word portions of the song are far clearer here than on the original.

"The Lovers" made its live debut at the [[2017/07/19_Bakersfield,_CA|first show]] of the I Can't Seem To Wake Up 2017 tour. It appeared at most shows on that tour, and every one throughout [[Europe + Asia 2018]], before continuing to appear frequently on the [[Cold And Black And Infinite Tour]]. The spoken portions of the song are played back by Reznor using a mini voice recorder held against the mic.

*[httphttps://songexploder.net/nine-inch-nails Reznor and Ross discuss "The Lovers" for ''Song Exploder'']