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REO Speedwagon’s “Can’t Fight This Feeling” stands as a cornerstone of the band’s evolution, bridging the gap between their hard rock roots and a more mainstream, pop-oriented sound.** Released in 1984 on their album “Wheels Are Turnin’”, the song became a cultural phenomenon, propelling REO Speedwagon to superstardom and solidifying their reputation as one of the leading rock acts of the decade. Written by frontman Kevin Cronin, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” perfectly captures the band’s ability to craft powerful ballads that resonate with themes of love, desire, and emotional vulnerability. Produced by Tom Kelly and Ron Nevison, the song’s infectious melody, soaring vocals, and layered instrumentation combined to create a radio-friendly anthem that dominated the charts.
The enduring appeal of “Can’t Fight This Feeling” lies in its ability to tap into universal human emotions.** The song chronicles the blossoming of a romantic connection, with the protagonist grappling between his initial apprehension and the undeniable pull of his newfound feelings. Lines like “I can’t fight this feeling any longer / And yet I’m still afraid to let it flow” paint a picture of emotional vulnerability and the struggle to surrender to love. However, as the song progresses, the protagonist embraces his emotions, declaring “It’s time to bring this ship into the shore / And throw away the oars, forever” This relatable narrative, combined with the song’s powerful emotional delivery, resonates with listeners of all ages who have experienced the joys and anxieties of falling in love.
Musically, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” departs from the heavier rock sound that characterized REO Speedwagon’s earlier work.** The song features a mid-tempo groove driven by Alan Gratzer’s steady drumming and Gregg Rolie’s prominent bass line. Kevin Cronin’s vocals take center stage, delivered with a soaring intensity that perfectly conveys the emotional turmoil of the protagonist. The song’s defining element is the use of synthesizers, a then-novel instrument that added a touch of pop sensibility to the overall sound. This innovative blend of rock and pop elements helped to propel “Can’t Fight This Feeling” to the top of the charts, bridging the gap between classic rock and the emerging musical trends of the mid-1980s.
Beyond its commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” has become a cultural touchstone.** The song’s iconic music video, featuring the band performing in a picturesque landscape, further cemented its place in popular culture. “Can’t Fight This Feeling” continues to resonate with listeners for decades, serving as a timeless anthem for those who have embraced the power of love and overcome their fears to embrace emotional connection.
This exploration of REO Speedwagon’s “Can’t Fight This Feeling” delves beyond the surface of the song, examining the creative vision behind its composition and production, the interplay between rock instrumentation and pop sensibilities, and the impact of the song’s relatable lyrics and soaring vocals on its enduring appeal. Through a critical lens, we will analyze how the song’s emotional delivery and use of synthesizers redefine REO Speedwagon’s sound, explore the themes of love, vulnerability, and acceptance, and consider “Can’t Fight This Feeling” as a testament to the band’s ability to create a power ballad that transcends generations.