Introduction:
Few songs capture the yearning and vulnerability of falling in love quite like REO Speedwagon’s timeless ballad, “Can’t Fight This Feeling”. Released in 1984 on the album “Wheels Are Turnin'”, the track became an instant classic, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart for three consecutive weeks and solidifying REO Speedwagon’s place as titans of rock radio.
Composed by guitarist and co-founder Kevin Cronin, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” marked a stylistic shift for the band. While previously known for their hard-driving rock anthems, this song embraced a softer, more melodic approach, falling squarely within the burgeoning genre of the power ballad. Producer Tom Kelly, known for his work with artists like Pat Benatar and Heart, helped craft the song’s polished sound, layering lush keyboards and soaring vocals over a foundation of driving drums and rhythmic guitar.
Lyrically, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” explores the internal conflict of burgeoning love. The protagonist wrestles with the fear of vulnerability while acknowledging the undeniable pull towards a special someone. Lines like “I can’t fight this feeling any longer / And yet I’m still afraid to let it flow” perfectly capture the hesitant yet hopeful nature of new love. The song’s soaring chorus, punctuated by Cronin’s impassioned vocals, further emphasizes the intensity of this newfound emotion: “Can’t fight this feeling anymore / I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for.”
“Can’t Fight This Feeling’s” impact transcended the charts. The song became a staple of wedding playlists and romantic comedies, solidifying its place as an anthem for hopeless romantics everywhere. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s relatable themes and its ability to capture the universal experience of falling head over heels. Whether swaying at a slow dance or singing along at the top of your lungs, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” continues to resonate with listeners of all generations.