Cutting Crew – I’ve Been In Love Before: Lyrics and Music Video

Cutting Crew - I've Been in Love Before: Song Overview

Cutting Crew's *I’ve Been in Love Before* (1986) is a melancholic pop-rock ballad from their debut album, Broadcast. Known for its introspective lyrics and emotive vocals, the track followed their smash hit *“(I Just) Died in Your Arms”*, showcasing the band’s ability to blend 1980s rock with heartfelt storytelling.

Release and Chart Performance

• Released in November 1986 as the album’s second single.
• Peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 (US) and No. 24 on the UK Singles Chart.
• Helped Broadcast achieve Platinum status in the US, selling over 1 million copies.

Musical Style and Themes

The song combines:

• Jangly guitars, atmospheric synths, and frontman Nick Van Eede’s soulful vocals.
• Lyrics reflecting on past relationships and emotional guardedness, highlighted by the chorus:

  “I’ve been in love before / And I found that love was more / Than just holding hands.”

Legacy and Cultural Impact

• Endures as a cult favorite among 1980s rock enthusiasts, with 50+ million streams globally.
• Featured in retro playlists and TV shows like Stranger Things, reviving its nostalgic appeal.
• Often overshadowed by the band’s bigger hit but praised for its lyrical maturity and vocal sincerity.

Songwriting Credits

Written by Nick Van Eede (lead singer) and produced by Terry Brown. The track’s stripped-down arrangement contrasts with the synth-heavy 1980s pop of its time.

Summary

*I’ve Been in Love Before* captures Cutting Crew’s knack for balancing rock edge with emotional depth. While less iconic than *“(I Just) Died in Your Arms”*, its chart success and introspective lyrics cement it as a hidden gem of 1980s soft rock, resonating with listeners seeking sincerity over flash.

Keywords

• Cutting Crew I've Been in Love Before lyrics
• 80s soft rock ballads
• Broadcast album Cutting Crew
• Nick Van Eede songs
• Best 1980s one-hit wonder bands