About the song
Few songs capture the essence of 1980s cinema quite like “Take My Breath Away.” This power ballad, synonymous with the action-packed film Top Gun, boasts a rich history filled with creative collaboration and unexpected turns. Buckle up, as we delve into the making of a melody that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release.
Our journey begins with Italian music legend Giorgio Moroder, tasked with crafting a soundtrack for the high-octane world of Top Gun. He delivered the iconic “Danger Zone,” a perfect fit for the film’s adrenaline-fueled flight sequences. But director Tony Scott and the producers craved a slower, more romantic counterpoint. Enter “Take My Breath Away,” born from Moroder’s distinctive synthesizer work.
The lyrics, however, weren’t penned by a seasoned musician. Fate intervened when Tom Whitlock, a mechanic working on Moroder’s Ferrari, revealed his songwriting talent. Inspired by the drive home from the studio, Whitlock crafted words that perfectly captured the intensity and vulnerability of love amidst danger.
A demo featuring a background vocalist impressed the film’s team so much that they decided to rewrite scenes to integrate the song seamlessly. Initially offered to The Motels, “Take My Breath Away” eventually landed with Berlin, a band Moroder had previously worked with. Their lead singer, Terri Nunn, brought the lyrics to life with her captivating voice.
The impact was undeniable. The song topped charts worldwide, becoming Berlin’s biggest hit and earning Academy and Golden Globe Awards for Best Original Song. Interestingly, the band itself was split on the track. While vocalist Terri Nunn saw it as a global platform, guitarist John Crawford lamented its lack of involvement from the band.
“Take My Breath Away” transcended the film, becoming a cultural touchstone. Its music video, featuring Nunn amidst planes in a boneyard, cemented its visual legacy. Even today, the song’s powerful key change is celebrated as one of music history’s greatest.
Whether igniting emotions in movie theaters or soundtracking countless playlists, “Take My Breath Away” continues to soar. It’s a testament to the magic that unfolds when creative minds collide, leaving behind a legacy that truly takes your breath away.
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Lyrics
Watching every motion in my foolish lover’s game
On this endless ocean, finally lovers know no shame
Turning and returning to some secret place inside
Watching in slow motion as you turn around and say
Take my breath away
Take my breath away
Watching, I keep waiting, still anticipating love
Never hesitating to become the fated ones
Turning and returning to some secret place to hide
Watching in slow motion as you turn to me and say
My love, take my breath away
Through the hourglass, I saw you
In time, you slipped away
When the mirror crashed, I called you
And turned to hear you say
If only for today, I am unafraid
Take my breath away
Take my breath away
Watching every motion in this foolish lover’s game
Haunted by the notion somewhere there’s a love in flames
Turning and returning to some secret place inside
Watching in slow motion as you turn my way and say
Take my breath away
My love, take my breath away
My love, take my breath away
My love, take my breath away