About the song
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” is a quintessential power ballad by the American rock band REO Speedwagon, first introduced on their 1984 album *Wheels Are Turnin’*. The song, which showcases the band’s emotive rock style, reached the pinnacle of success, securing the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for three consecutive weeks from March 9 to March 23, 1985. This track stands as REO Speedwagon’s second and final number-one hit in the U.S., following their earlier success with “Keep on Loving You” in 1980. Although it only reached number sixteen on the UK Singles Chart, its impact has been lasting, featuring prominently in various compilation and greatest hits albums by the band.
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” is a reflection of personal struggle and the complex emotions tied to unspoken love. The song’s origins are rooted in a period of emotional turbulence for Kevin Cronin, the band’s lead vocalist and songwriter. Cronin crafted the song from verses he had written years earlier, initially as a demo during a brief hiatus from REO Speedwagon in the mid-70s. While vacationing in Hawaii, he completed the song, channeling his feelings about a complicated relationship where he was silently drawn to a woman who was dating a friend. This personal narrative infuses the song with a deep sense of yearning and internal conflict, capturing the theme of facing one’s feelings and the difficulty of change.
The song’s composition is set in A major, providing a rich and emotionally resonant backdrop for Cronin’s heartfelt lyrics. REO Speedwagon’s members, including Gary Richrath on electric guitar and Neal Doughty on piano, contribute to the song’s powerful rock ballad sound. Despite initial skepticism from the band members, who referred to the track as “that stupid ballad,” its release proved them wrong as it climbed to the top of the charts.
The reception of “Can’t Fight This Feeling” was largely positive. Critics praised its melodious appeal and the blend of rock instrumentation with adult contemporary sensibilities. Chicago Tribune’s Jan DeKnock noted its ability to ride a captivating melody to chart success, while Billboard described it as a compelling midtempo rock ballad. However, opinions were not universally glowing; some critics, like Greg Kennedy of the Red Deer Advocate, criticized it as a formulaic composition.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its chart performance. It was performed at the 1985 Live Aid concert, adding to its cultural significance. The accompanying music videos also contributed to its prominence. One version, produced by MTV, features the band in a studio setting, while the more recognized version directed by John Jopson includes symbolic imagery reflecting the song’s emotional journey.
In sum, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” remains a defining example of REO Speedwagon’s influence in the power ballad genre, capturing the universal struggle of confronting deep emotions and the inevitable need for change.
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