About the song
Released in 1984, “What’s Love Got to Do With It” became a landmark song in the career of legendary singer Tina Turner. It wasn’t just another hit single; it was a cultural phenomenon that redefined Turner’s image and resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.
Composed by Graham Lyle and Terry Britten, the song initially found homes in unexpected places. Offered to Cliff Richard and Bucks Fizz, it was ultimately rejected before landing in Turner’s powerful hands. “What’s Love Got to Do With It” marked a turning point for Turner, showcasing a newfound confidence and strength after a tumultuous personal life.
The song itself is a captivating blend of styles. Synth-driven melodies provide a modern backdrop for Turner’s iconic vocals, which pulsate with raw emotion. The lyrics challenge traditional notions of love, questioning blind devotion and prioritizing passion over empty promises. Turner’s defiant delivery of the line “What’s love got to do with it?” became an anthem for those seeking independence and self-worth in relationships.
Critical acclaim for the song was widespread. Praised for its “sophisticated pop” and “three minutes and 48 seconds of pop perfection,” “What’s Love Got to Do With It” dominated the charts. It became Turner’s first and only number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying her status as a musical powerhouse. The song’s success transcended borders, reaching the top spot in countries like Australia and Canada, and achieving high rankings globally.
The accompanying music video further cemented the song’s impact. Featuring Turner strutting down a New York City street in a leather miniskirt, the video exuded a sense of empowerment and unwavering self-belief. This powerful imagery perfectly complemented the song’s message, inspiring countless fans.
“What’s Love Got to Do With It” transcended its status as a hit song. It became a symbol of resilience and a rallying cry for those seeking independence in love. The song’s influence continues to be felt today, with covers by artists across genres and its title inspiring a biopic film chronicling Turner’s extraordinary life. “What’s Love Got to Do With It” remains a timeless anthem, forever etched in music history.
Video
Lyrics
You must understand, though the touch of your hand makes my pulse react
That it’s only the thrill of boy meeting girl, opposites attract
It’s physical
Only logical
You must try to ignore that it means more than that
Oh-oh-oh, what’s love got to do, got to do with it?
What’s love, but a second-hand emotion?
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
It may seem to you that I’m acting confused when you’re close to me
If I tend to look dazed, I read it some place, I got cause to be
There’s a name for it
There’s a phrase that fits
But whatever the reason, you do it for me
Oh-oh-oh, what’s love got to do, got to do with it?
What’s love, but a second-hand emotion?
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
Who?
I’ve been taking on a new direction
But I have to say
I’ve been thinking about my own protection
It scares me to feel this way
Oh-oh-oh, what’s love got to do, got to do with it?
What’s love, but a second-hand emotion?
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
got to do, got to do with it?
What’s love, but a sweet old-fashioned notion?
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
ooh, got to do with it?
(What’s love? A second-hand emotion)
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
(What’s love) ooh-ooh (got to do with it?) got to do with it?