About the song
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” is a quintessential power ballad performed by the American rock band REO Speedwagon, featured on their 1984 album *Wheels Are Turnin’*. Written by the band’s lead singer and songwriter Kevin Cronin, the song achieved remarkable success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart for three consecutive weeks from March 9 to March 23, 1985. This was REO Speedwagon’s second and final number-one hit in the U.S., following their earlier success with “Keep on Loving You” in 1980. The song also garnered significant attention internationally, reaching number sixteen on the UK Singles Chart and becoming a staple on various compilation and greatest hits albums.
The creation of “Can’t Fight This Feeling” is a testament to Cronin’s personal experiences and emotional depth. Initially conceived years prior, the song was completed during a period of creative reflection in Hawaii. Cronin’s inspiration stemmed from a poignant personal situation involving a woman he admired within his circle of friends. Struggling with his feelings and the complexities of the situation, Cronin poured his emotions into the lyrics, ultimately capturing a moment of profound realization and vulnerability.
Musically, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” is crafted in the key of A major, featuring a blend of a compelling melody with powerful rock instrumentation. The song’s composition strikes a balance between adult contemporary sensibilities and rock, making it accessible to a broad audience. Critics praised the song for its emotional resonance and melodic appeal. The Chicago Tribune noted its success as a “pretty melody” that ascended to number one, while Billboard highlighted it as a “midtempo rock ballad” with strong appeal.
Despite its eventual success, the song was initially met with skepticism from some of the band members, who referred to it as “that stupid ballad” until it proved its popularity. The song’s impact was further showcased during the 1985 Live Aid concert, where REO Speedwagon performed it to a global audience.
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” has been immortalized through its music videos, including two distinct versions. The first, produced by MTV, features the band in a studio setting, capturing a candid and informal moment. The second, a more polished version directed by John Jopson, visually complements the song with professional production values and thematic elements reflecting the song’s emotional journey.
Overall, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” stands as a defining track of the 1980s, celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, powerful delivery, and enduring appeal. Its success solidified REO Speedwagon’s place in rock history and continued to resonate with audiences long after its initial release.
Video
Lyrics
I can’t fight this feeling any longer
And yet I’m still afraid to let it flow
What started out as friendship has grown stronger
I only wish I had the strength to let it show
I tell myself that I can’t hold out forever
I said there is no reason for my fear
‘Cause I feel so secure when we’re together
You give my life direction
You make everything so clear
And even as I wander
I’m keeping you in sight
You’re a candle in the window
On a cold, dark winter’s night
And I’m getting closer than I ever thought I might
And I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for
It’s time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever
‘Cause I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fightin’ for
And if I have to crawl upon the floor
Come crashing through your door
Baby, I can’t fight this feeling anymore
My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you
I’ve been running ’round in circles in my mind
And it always seems that I’m followin’ you, girl
‘Cause you take me to the places
That alone I’d never find
And even as I wander
I’m keeping you in sight
You’re a candle in the window
On a cold, dark winter’s night
And I’m getting closer than I ever thought I might
And I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fightin’ for
It’s time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever
‘Cause I can’t fight this feeling anymore
I’ve forgotten what I started fightin’ for
And if I have to crawl upon the floor
Come crashing through your door
Baby, I can’t fight this feeling anymore
Ooh