About the song
“Keep On Loving You,” penned by Kevin Cronin and performed by REO Speedwagon, stands as a quintessential example of 1980s soft rock balladry. Released in 1980 as part of the album “Hi Infidelity,” the song quickly ascended to the top of charts, marking a significant milestone for the band.
The genesis of “Keep On Loving You” was rather unconventional. Kevin Cronin, primarily known as a guitarist, surprised his bandmates by unveiling the song on piano during a rehearsal. Initially met with skepticism from the band, Cronin’s steadfast belief in the song’s potential eventually won them over. Gary Richrath’s electrifying guitar work, which he initially used to drown out Cronin’s piano, ultimately transformed the ballad into a power ballad, solidifying its place as an REO Speedwagon classic.
Cronin’s inspiration for the song was deeply personal, crafting it as a traditional love ballad infused with heartfelt emotion. This sincerity resonated with audiences worldwide, propelling “Keep On Loving You” to number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in March 1981. Its success wasn’t confined to the U.S.; it also reached number seven on the UK Singles Chart, cementing its international acclaim.
Beyond its chart-topping success, “Keep On Loving You” has become a staple of 1980s music compilations and REO Speedwagon’s greatest hits albums. Matt Wardlaw of Ultimate Classic Rock even hailed it as the band’s finest achievement.
The song’s enduring popularity is further underscored by its inclusion in the inaugural lineup of MTV videos in 1981, adding visual depth to its emotional resonance. The accompanying music video, featuring Kevin Cronin discussing personal struggles with a psychiatrist, provided a narrative backdrop that complemented the song’s lyrical themes.
“Keep On Loving You” remains a testament to REO Speedwagon’s ability to blend raw emotion with powerful musicality, showcasing their evolution from rock roots to mainstream success. Its legacy as a quintessential power ballad endures, resonating with audiences decades after its initial release.
Video
Lyrics
You should have seen by the look in my eyes, baby
There was somethin’ missin’
You should have known by the tone of my voice, maybe
But you didn’t listen
You played dead, but you never bled
Instead you laid still in the grass, all coiled up and hissin’
And though I know all about those men
Still I don’t remember
‘Cause it was us
Baby, way before then, and we’re still together
And I meant
Every word I said
When I said that I loved you I meant that I loved you forever
And I’m gonna keep on lovin’ you
‘Cause it’s the only thing I want to do
I don’t want to sleep, I just want to keep on lovin’ you
And I meant
Every word I said
When I said that I loved you I meant that I loved you forever
And I’m gonna keep on lovin’ you
‘Cause it’s the only thing I want to do
I don’t want to sleep, I just want to keep on lovin’ you
Baby, I’m gonna keep on loving you
‘Cause it’s the only thing I wanna do
I don’t want to sleep, I just want to keep on lovin’ you