Whitesnake – Is This Love: A Power Ballad of Tender Longing and Enduring Romance
Few power ballads manage to seamlessly blend vulnerability with grandeur as effectively as Whitesnake’s Is This Love. Released in 1987 as part of their iconic self-titled album, this track quickly became one of the band’s defining moments, showcasing a softer, deeply emotive side of their hard rock persona. Written by lead singer David Coverdale and guitarist John Sykes, the song speaks to the universal experience of questioning and yearning in love. Its intoxicating melody, heartfelt lyrics, and unforgettable delivery have solidified its place as a timeless classic.
At its core, Is This Love captures the uncertainty and wonder that often accompany the early stages of falling in love. The lyrics ask, “Is this love that I’m feeling? Is this the love that I’ve been searching for?”—questions that resonate with anyone who’s ever grappled with the intoxicating mix of hope, vulnerability, and desire. The tenderness in Coverdale’s vocals conveys not just the longing for connection, but the fear of risking one’s heart. This emotional complexity makes the song more than just a romantic ballad; it’s an exploration of love’s fragile beauty.
Musically, the track exemplifies the polished, anthemic sound that defined Whitesnake’s 1987 album. Its understated verses, marked by a gentle guitar riff and smooth keyboard flourishes, gradually build into a soaring, emotionally charged chorus. John Sykes’ guitar work is a masterclass in restraint and power, delivering melodic lines that enhance the song’s emotional depth without overshadowing its tender essence. The production, helmed by Mike Stone and Keith Olsen, balances the song’s hard rock roots with a softer, pop-friendly sensibility, creating a lush soundscape that elevates the track’s romantic themes.
Commercially, Is This Love was an undeniable success, peaking at number two on the US Billboard Hot 100, just behind the chart-topping Here I Go Again. In the UK, it climbed to number nine, further cementing Whitesnake’s status as a global rock powerhouse. The song’s re-release in 1994 to promote Whitesnake’s Greatest Hits reinforced its enduring appeal, landing once again on the UK Singles Chart. Beyond its chart performance, the song earned critical acclaim, with Classic Rock magazine ranking it as the 7th greatest power ballad of all time in 2015—a testament to its lasting impact.
On stage, Is This Love has been a staple of Whitesnake’s live performances since its debut. Whether performed as part of their Live: In the Shadow of the Blues collection or during the unforgettable Live at Donington 1990 concert, the song continues to captivate audiences. Its intimate yet anthemic quality makes it a unifying moment in their shows, drawing fans into the emotional core of Whitesnake’s music. Even John Sykes, who departed the band after the 1987 album, honored the track in his own performances, a testament to its universal appeal.
Is This Love remains a pinnacle of Whitesnake’s artistry, a song that transcends the boundaries of hard rock to touch the hearts of listeners across generations. Its combination of raw emotion, impeccable musicianship, and timeless themes of love and longing ensures its place in the pantheon of classic power ballads. Whether rediscovered through a live performance or played on a quiet evening, the song’s tender introspection continues to resonate, inviting listeners to reflect on the profound, universal question at its heart: Is this love?