REO Speedwagon – Can’t Fight This Feeling: Lyrics and Music Video

"Can’t Fight This Feeling" by REO Speedwagon is a heartfelt power ballad about the struggle of falling deeply in love, even when trying to resist those feelings. Released in 1984 as part of their album Wheels Are Turnin', the song became a massive hit, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1985. Written by the band’s lead vocalist Kevin Cronin, it tells the story of someone realizing they can no longer suppress their romantic feelings for a close friend. With its emotional lyrics, soaring melody, and passionate delivery, it quickly became one of the most beloved love songs of the 1980s.

Key Details:

• Release Date: November 1984
• Album: Wheels Are Turnin'
• Writer: Kevin Cronin
• Producer: Kevin Cronin and Alan Gratzer

Themes and Meaning:

• Reluctant Love and Self-Realization: The lyrics express the internal struggle of falling for someone who was once "just a friend," and the narrator’s eventual acceptance of those feelings.

• The Power of Love and Vulnerability: "Can’t Fight This Feeling" emphasizes how love can overpower self-restraint, making it a powerful force that can’t be denied.

Lyrics Overview:

The chorus captures the vulnerability and surrender to love:

• "I can't fight this feeling any longer / And yet I'm still afraid to let it flow."

These lines highlight the internal conflict and ultimate realization that love is inevitable, no matter how hard one tries to resist.

Musical Style:

• Soft Rock Power Ballad: The song features a blend of piano, synth, and electric guitar, creating a dramatic and emotionally charged sound that is typical of 80s power ballads.

• Soaring Vocals and Harmonies: Cronin’s expressive vocals and the band's harmonies add depth and passion to the song, intensifying its emotional impact.

Commercial Success:

• Chart Performance:
  • "Can’t Fight This Feeling" became one of REO Speedwagon’s biggest hits, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and holding that position for three weeks. It also achieved strong chart positions internationally.

The song's success solidified REO Speedwagon’s place as one of the leading rock bands of the 80s, particularly known for their ballads.

Background and Creation:

• Personal Connection for Kevin Cronin: Cronin wrote the song based on his own experiences with love and relationships. The song’s authenticity and relatability helped it resonate with audiences.

• Building on Their Success: The band was already popular thanks to earlier hits like "Keep on Loving You," and "Can’t Fight This Feeling" further established their reputation for powerful love ballads.

Legacy and Reception:

• Enduring Popularity: "Can’t Fight This Feeling" remains one of the most popular love songs of the 80s and is frequently played at weddings, anniversaries, and romantic events.

• Fan Favorite and Romantic Classic: Fans consider it a classic love anthem, and it has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, often in romantic or nostalgic scenes.

• Signature Song for REO Speedwagon: While the band has a number of hits, "Can’t Fight This Feeling" is one of their most defining songs, showcasing their talent for creating relatable, heartfelt ballads.

Cultural Impact:

• Staple of 80s Soft Rock: The song is a staple of 80s rock and soft rock playlists, capturing the decade’s flair for emotional, soaring ballads.

• Used in Pop Culture: "Can’t Fight This Feeling" has been featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials, often symbolizing the intensity of love and romantic realization.

In Summary:

"Can’t Fight This Feeling" by REO Speedwagon is an iconic 80s ballad about surrendering to love. Released in 1984, it reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the band’s signature songs. With its emotional lyrics, heartfelt melody, and powerful vocal performance, the song remains a classic in REO Speedwagon’s catalog and a beloved anthem for anyone who’s ever experienced the undeniable pull of love.