“Can’t Fight This Feeling” – REO Speedwagon’s Anthem of Vulnerability and Passion
In “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” REO Speedwagon crafted a timeless anthem of love, fear, and inner transformation that’s as powerful today as it was in the mid-1980s. Released in 1984 as a single from their album Wheels Are Turnin’, this ballad struck a chord globally, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the band’s defining hits. Kevin Cronin’s heartfelt lyrics and the band’s lush, sweeping arrangement reveal a vulnerable side of rock that resonated with audiences, securing the song’s place as an enduring classic of the era.
The song opens gently, almost hesitantly, mirroring the inner struggle of the lyrics. Cronin’s voice, tender and introspective, draws listeners into a world of emotional conflict, where the protagonist can no longer ignore his feelings. As the track unfolds, the lyrics tell the story of a long friendship evolving into something deeper, a relationship whose meaning has quietly shifted until it’s undeniable. Each line is infused with a mix of longing and apprehension, capturing the fear of risking a friendship for the chance of something more.
The progression of “Can’t Fight This Feeling” is almost cinematic, as the soft piano intro and subtle guitar work build towards a crescendo that explodes with emotional force. By the chorus, the song is awash in a wave of rich instrumentation that mirrors the release of suppressed feelings. The melody, both expansive and intimate, swirls around the listener, creating a sense of overwhelming passion and urgency. Each chorus lifts the song higher, pulling us into the depth of the protagonist’s emotions, as if we’re witnessing a confession after years of silence.
Part of the song’s lasting appeal lies in its universal theme of unrequited love, making it relatable for anyone who’s experienced the push and pull of emotions. But Cronin’s delivery gives it a personal edge, as he sings with conviction, capturing the intensity and hopefulness of finally surrendering to love. “Can’t Fight This Feeling” has remained an essential piece of REO Speedwagon’s catalog, a song that speaks to the bravery it takes to confront one’s feelings and the beauty of embracing love when it finally feels right.
Today, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” stands not just as a classic power ballad but as a touchstone of ‘80s rock sentimentality—a song that continues to speak to listeners about the courage it takes to follow the heart’s deepest desires, no matter the cost.