About the song
Bonnie Tyler’s iconic ballad, “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” is a haunting masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. Released in 1983 as the lead single from her fifth studio album, Faster Than the Speed of Night, the song quickly became a global sensation, topping charts around the world and cementing Tyler’s status as a powerhouse vocalist.
Penned by the legendary Jim Steinman, known for his dramatic and theatrical compositions, “Total Eclipse of the Heart” is a sweeping power ballad that explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of human emotion. The song’s dramatic orchestration, soaring vocals, and evocative lyrics combine to create a timeless and unforgettable listening experience.
Tyler’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary. Her voice, rich and powerful, effortlessly conveys the raw emotion and vulnerability of the song’s protagonist. She delivers each note with such conviction and passion that it’s impossible not to be moved. The duet with Rory Dodd adds an extra layer of depth and intensity to the song, as their voices harmonize beautifully to create a truly unforgettable performance.
The song’s lyrics are equally captivating. Steinman paints a vivid picture of a love that has been lost, but the memory of which lingers like a haunting specter. The imagery of a “total eclipse of the heart” is both poetic and powerful, suggesting a complete and utter loss of love and hope.
“Total Eclipse of the Heart” has endured the test of time, remaining a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s timeless appeal and the power of great music to touch the human soul. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this iconic ballad is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
Turn around, every now and then
I get a little bit lonely, and you’re never coming round
Turn around, every now and then
I get a little bit tired of listening to the sound of my tearsTurn around, every now and then
I get a little bit nervous that the best of all the years have gone by
Turn around, every now and then
I get a little bit terrified, and then I see the look in your eyesTurn around, bright eyes
Every now and then I fall apart
Turn around, bright eyes
Every now and then I fall apartAnd I need you now tonight
And I need you more than ever
And if you only hold me tight
We’ll be holding on forever
And we’ll only be making it right
‘Cause we’ll never be wrongTogether, we can take it to the end of the line
Your love is like a shadow on me all of the time (All of the time)
I don’t know what to do, and I’m always in the dark
We’re living in a powder keg and giving off sparks
I really need you tonight
Forever’s gonna start tonight
Forever’s gonna start tonightOnce upon a time, I was falling in love
Now I’m only falling apart
There’s nothing I can do
A total eclipse of the heartOnce upon a time, there was light in my life
But now there’s only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heartTurn around, bright eyes
Every now and then, I fall apart
Turn around, bright eyes
Every now and then, I fall apartAnd I need you now tonight (and I need you)
And I need you more than ever
And if you only hold me tight (if you’ll only)
We’ll be holding on forever
And we’ll only be making it right (and we’ll never)
‘Cause we’ll never be wrongTogether we can take it to the end of the line
Your love is like a shadow on me all of the time (all of the time)
I don’t know what to do, I’m always in the dark
We’re living in a powder keg, and giving off sparks
I really need you tonight
Forever’s gonna start tonight
Forever’s gonna start tonightOnce upon a time, I was falling in love
Now I’m only falling apart
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heartA total eclipse of the heart
A total eclipse of the heart
Turn around, bright eyes