About the song
In the mid-1980s, when power ballads and larger-than-life rock operas reigned supreme, Bonnie Tyler and Todd Rundgren joined forces to create one of the most memorable and unconventional duets of the era: “Loving You’s a Dirty Job but Somebody’s Gotta Do It.” This track, penned by the legendary Jim Steinman, was the lead single from Tyler’s sixth studio album, “Secret Dreams and Forbidden Fire,” released in 1986.
Steinman, known for his bombastic and theatrical compositions, crafted a narrative that was equal parts humorous and heartfelt. The song’s title alone is a playful wink at the concept of love as a sometimes messy and demanding endeavor. Tyler’s signature raspy vocals, combined with Rundgren’s more melodic approach, create a dynamic and engaging duet.
The accompanying music video, directed by Tim Pope, is a visual feast that complements the song’s dramatic flair. Pope’s decision to use a body double for Rundgren, a move that was met with Tyler’s approval, added an extra layer of intrigue to the video. The choice of artwork for the single, featuring paintings by Edward Burne-Jones, further enhanced the song’s theatrical and romantic atmosphere.
“Loving You’s a Dirty Job” was more than just a song; it was a mini-rock opera that captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. The track’s commercial success, coupled with its memorable music video, cemented its place in popular culture. Tyler and Rundgren’s collaboration was a testament to their artistic talents and their ability to create something truly unique and unforgettable.
In conclusion, “Loving You’s a Dirty Job but Somebody’s Gotta Do It” is a standout track from Bonnie Tyler’s discography. The song’s playful lyrics, dramatic music video, and powerful vocals make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of rock opera and a reminder of the power of music to transport listeners to another world.
Video
Lyrics
When the sky is falling and you’re looking round for somewhere to hide
Did you ever call out to someone, did you ever call out to me
I’ve never been gone, I’ve been right here by your side
There ain’t nothin’ but clouds, there ain’t nothin’ but clouds in your eyes
Why don’t you believe it when you finally found the truth
You’ve been drinking poison water from the fountain of youth
Why don’t you stop tearing up everyone you need the most
You’re so busy trying to get even, you never even try to get close
I can’t explain it away, it doesn’t make any sense
To know what it’s like, I guess you gotta go through it
I guess you gotta go through it, I guess you gotta go through it
It doesn’t matter, baby
Loving you’s a dirty job
But somebody’s gotta do it
There were times when we’d never fake it
There were times when we’d always make it
There were times when we’d take it to the limit
And we’d never, never, ever leave each other alone
We were flesh and blood and bone
There were times we had it all
There were times we had it all
There were times when we took our chances
There were times when we were damn good dancers
There were times when we heard all the answers
In the beating of the drummer and the riches of the rock and the roll
I can see right through your soul
There were times we had it all
There were times we had it all
If your fears could only be forgotten, we could pull all of the barriers down
Would you follow your dreams’ desire
Would you follow your secret dreams and forbidden fire
Let’s just peel out of this town
It’s been nothing but dreams
It’s been nothing but dreams until now
You’re never gonna see it
You got your head stuck in the sand
It’s the land of the free and easy Street
It’s the home of the damned
You’re never gonna see it
You better open up your eyes
You’re the only one who’s left
Who’s gonna believe all your lies
I can’t explain it away, it doesn’t make any sense
To know what it’s like, I guess you gotta go through it
I guess you gotta go through it, I guess you gotta go through it
It doesn’t matter, baby
Loving you’s a dirty job
But somebody’s gotta do it
There were times when we fought like tigers
There were times we were damn good liars
There were times we extinguished every fire
That was burning, burning, burning up each other alive
From the heavens on down to the dives
There were times we lost it all
There were times we lost it all
There were times when we fought like tigers
There were times we were damn good liars
There were times when our bodies glistened
There were times that we can’t stop missing
There were times that we’d lay in bed and listen to the pounding
Pounding chorus of our desperate hearts
Nothing could have torn us apart
There were times we had it all
There were times we had it all
There were times we had it all (it’s a dirty job)
(Loving you, baby, somebody’s gotta do it)