About the song
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” is a song that goes beyond its catchy melody and rock anthem status. It’s a story of love, unspoken emotions, and the courage to take a chance. This power ballad, performed by the American rock band REO Speedwagon, dominated the charts in 1985, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for three consecutive weeks.
The song’s origins lie in the personal experiences of REO Speedwagon’s frontman, Kevin Cronin. Years before the band’s 1984 album “Wheels Are Turnin'”, Cronin penned the initial verses, inspired by a woman he was attracted to within his friend group. The emotional weight of these unspoken feelings simmered for years, eventually forming the core of “Can’t Fight This Feeling.”
While composing for “Wheels Are Turnin'”, Cronin revisited these verses while supposedly taking a break. The song’s melody blossomed in Hawaii, fueled by the depth of his long-suppressed emotions. According to drummer Alan Gratzer, the song’s completion took time, reflecting the complexity of the feelings Cronin poured into the lyrics.
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” delves into the struggle between acknowledging your desires and the fear of disrupting the status quo. Cronin describes it as “that moment in time where…it gets too painful to be where you are and you know you have to change…but change is hard…and you overcome that fear of change.”
Initially, the band members dismissed it as “that stupid ballad,” a testament to the song’s divergence from their usual rock sound. However, “Can’t Fight This Feeling”‘s emotional resonance with audiences propelled it to become a chart-topping hit.
Critics offered mixed reviews. Some praised the song’s beautiful melody and its ability to bridge the gap between adult contemporary and rock radio. Others found it formulaic or lacking in originality. Despite the critiques, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” secured its place as a power ballad classic, with accolades including being named one of the greatest power ballads by music writers.
The song’s success can be attributed to its raw honesty. Cronin’s vocals, coupled with the searing guitar riffs, create a powerful combination of vulnerability and rock energy. The music video, featuring the band performing amidst visuals of a life cycle, further reinforces the song’s theme of overcoming challenges and embracing change.
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the transformative power of expressing your true feelings. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest rewards lie on the other side of taking a chance.
Video
Lyrics
I can’t fight this feeling any longer
And yet I’m still afraid to let it flow
What started out as friendship has grown stronger
I only wish I had the strength to let it show
I tell myself that I can’t hold out forever
I said there is no reason for my fear
‘Cause I feel so secure when we’re together
You give my life direction
You make everything so clear
And even as I wander
I’m keeping you in sight
You’re a candle in the window
On a cold, dark winter’s night
And I’m getting closer than I ever thought I might
And I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for
It’s time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever
‘Cause I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fightin’ for
And if I have to crawl upon the floor
Come crashing through your door
Baby, I can’t fight this feeling anymore
My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you
I’ve been running ’round in circles in my mind
And it always seems that I’m followin’ you, girl
‘Cause you take me to the places
That alone I’d never find
And even as I wander
I’m keeping you in sight
You’re a candle in the window
On a cold, dark winter’s night
And I’m getting closer than I ever thought I might
And I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fightin’ for
It’s time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever
‘Cause I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fightin’ for
And if I have to crawl upon the floor
Come crashing through your door
Baby, I can’t fight this feeling anymore
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