1. What Was The Significance Of Journey’s Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction?
Journey’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2017 marked the culmination of years of fan support and industry recognition. It cemented their legacy as one of rock music’s most beloved and influential bands. The induction acknowledged Journey’s impact on popular culture and their ability to create music that transcends generations.
Journey was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as part of its 2017 class. They are one of many bands to be inducted long after being eligible. Their legions of fans rightfully celebrated the band and this long-overdue honor inside the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
2. Who Inducted Journey Into The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame?
Train singer Pat Monahan, also hailing from the San Francisco Bay area, inducted Journey into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Monahan’s heartfelt speech underscored Journey’s importance to the San Francisco music scene and recognized their impressive achievements, including selling over 100 million albums worldwide. His remarks highlighted the band’s unique sound and their enduring appeal to audiences worldwide.
They were inducted by Train singer Pat Monahan, whose own band also hails from the San Francisco Bay area. Monahan referred to Journey as “the heart of San Francisco music.” He listed their many accolades, including selling over 100 million albums worldwide.
3. What Did Pat Monahan Say About Journey’s Rock Hall Induction?
Pat Monahan acknowledged the Rock Hall’s delayed recognition of Journey, expressing gratitude that their first appearance on the ballot led to their well-deserved induction. His statement resonated with fans who felt the band’s contributions had been overlooked for too long. Monahan’s support emphasized the importance of recognizing artists for their significant contributions to music history.
Monahan also alluded to Journey being overlooked by the Rock Hall for many years. He said, “I love along with you all that this is the first time they’ve been put on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ballot, and that’s all it took for them for them to be recognized for the great work they’ve done.”
4. Which Members Of Journey Gave Acceptance Speeches At The Rock Hall Induction?
Jonathan Cain, Aynsley Dunbar, Gregg Rolie, Neal Schon, Steve Smith, and Ross Valory all delivered acceptance speeches at Journey’s Rock Hall induction. Each member shared personal reflections and gratitude, highlighting the band’s collaborative spirit and collective journey. Steve Perry’s speech was particularly anticipated, marking a significant moment for fans eager to hear from the iconic former singer.
When it came to the acceptance speeches, Jonathan Cain, Aynsley Dunbar, Gregg Rolie, Neal Schon, Steve Smith and Ross Valory all made remarks. However, the member many looked forward to speaking the most was former Journey singer Steve Perry. When he walked to the microphone, the Barclays Center erupted, and Perry was visually moved.
5. What Did Steve Perry Say During His Rock Hall Acceptance Speech?
Steve Perry reminisced about watching Journey perform in Los Angeles clubs and praised the band’s exceptional musicianship, especially Neal Schon’s guitar skills. He also acknowledged Arnel Pineda, Journey’s current singer, expressing his appreciation for Pineda’s dedication and talent. Perry’s gracious words reflected his respect for the band’s legacy and his support for its continued success.
Perry recalled first checking out the band when they would perform at clubs in Los Angeles and mentioned how their musicianship blew him away. He did single out one musician in the band during his speech.
“Though their musicianship was absolutely par to none, there was one instrument that was flying above the entire city of Los Angeles. That was the magic fingers of Neal Schon’s guitar,” said Perry.
A true class act, Perry also said during his speech, “I must give a complete shoutout to someone who sings his heart out every night, and that’s Arnel Pineda. To Arnel, I love you.”
6. Did Steve Perry Perform With Journey At The Rock Hall Induction Ceremony?
Steve Perry chose not to perform with Journey during the induction ceremony. Arnel Pineda, Journey’s current singer, handled the vocal duties for the band’s three-song set, which included “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” “Lights,” and “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Pineda’s performance honored Journey’s musical legacy and demonstrated the band’s ongoing vitality. The decision allowed Pineda to shine while respecting Perry’s decision.
Perry opted not to sing with Journey during the performance segment of their induction. Instead, Pineda did the honors. Their three-song set included “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” “Lights” and “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Those performances can be seen below.
7. What Songs Did Journey Perform At Their Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction?
Journey performed “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” “Lights,” and “Don’t Stop Believin'” at their Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. These songs represent some of Journey’s most iconic and beloved hits, showcasing their musical range and enduring appeal. The performance celebrated the band’s legacy and provided a memorable moment for fans in attendance.
Their three-song set included “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” “Lights” and “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Those performances can be seen below.
8. What Is A Power Ballad, And How Does It Relate To Journey’s Music?
A power ballad is a type of song characterized by its musical formula of constant escalation and an expressive formula that combines euphoric uplift with sentimental themes. According to Cambridge University Press’ academic journal Popular Music, “The power ballad has become a mainstay of popular music since the 1970s…The songs are defined by the use of both a musical formula based on constant escalation and an expressive formula that combines the euphoric uplift created by rousing music with sentimental themes and ploys.” Journey’s music, particularly songs like “Open Arms” and “Faithfully,” exemplifies the power ballad genre, blending emotional lyrics with soaring melodies and powerful instrumentation.
Power ballads: They’re some of music’s most powerful expressions. While their popularity exploded in the ‘80s, they can be found in multiple decades, as is evident in our list.
According to Cambridge University Press’ academic journal Popular Music, “The power ballad has become a mainstay of popular music since the 1970s…The songs are defined by the use of both a musical formula based on constant escalation and an expressive formula that combines the euphoric uplift created by rousing music with sentimental themes and ploys.”
9. How Did Power Ballads Evolve Over The Decades?
Power ballads evolved from the 1960s through the 1980s, incorporating elements of R&B and rock music. The 1980s saw a surge in popularity, aligning with the decade’s larger-than-life personalities and bold musical styles. This evolution led to power ballads becoming a staple in rock music. The genre adapted and remained relevant.
The journal further notes that power ballads aren’t exclusively rock songs. In fact, many songs from the 1970s that are considered power ballads fall under the pop genre. In the 1960s, many songs considered power ballads had more R&B elements to them.
However, the grand nature of the power ballad lent itself well to the rock music of the 1980s. During that time, everything was “bigger,” and we aren’t just talking about hair and shoulder pads. Personalities seemed bigger. The stakes for fame seemed bigger. There was a kind of boldness that was only of that time.
10. How Did Tesla’s “Love Song” Become One Of Their Biggest Hits?
Tesla’s “Love Song” became one of their biggest hits due to its soaring vocals by Jeff Keith, a massive guitar solo by Frank Hannon, and its catchy “Du du du-du-du” melody. These elements combined to create a memorable and widely appealing song that resonated with audiences. The song’s structure and emotional delivery contributed to its success and enduring popularity.
Soaring vocals from Jeff Keith? Check. Massive guitar solo from Frank Hannon? Check. Excellent use of “Du du du-du-du”? Big ol’ check right there! It’s no wonder this was one of Tesla’s biggest hits.
11. What Inspired L.A. Guns’ Hit Song “The Ballad Of Jayne”?
L.A. Guns’ hit song “The Ballad of Jayne” was inspired by a fictitious character based on young girls who leave their small towns for Los Angeles to become stars. According to singer Phil Lewis, the song is not about actress Jayne Mansfield but rather a composite of aspiring actresses. This inspiration provided the song with a poignant and relatable narrative.
While the history of L.A. Guns is intertwined with Guns N’ Roses due to Axl Rose’s brief stint in the band in 1984, L.A. Guns only managed one hit with 1989’s “The Ballad of Jayne,” but they sure did make it count. And no, the song isn’t an ode to late actress Jayne Mansfield. Singer Phil Lewis said in a 2011 interview, “It’s not about [Jayne Mansfield] at all. It’s about a fictitious character, but I based it on so many of these young girls who leave their small towns and go out to LA to become a star.”
12. Why Was Starship’s “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” So Successful?
Starship’s “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” was successful due to its inclusion in the 1987 film Mannequin and its catchy, uplifting melody. The song featured Mickey Thomas sharing vocal duties with Grace Slick. Written by Diane Warren and Albert Hammond, its optimistic message resonated with audiences. The song’s success was further cemented by its nomination for the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
All due respect to Andrew McCarthy and Kim Cattrall, but “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” was the best thing about the 1987 film Mannequin. The track features Mickey Thomas sharing vocal duties with Grace Slick, who just two decades prior was wailing “Feed Your Head!” on “White Rabbit.” (Honestly, that’s still jarring years later.) Penned by songwriting giants Diane Warren and Albert Hammond, “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” would go on to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
13. How Did Alannah Myles’ “Black Velvet” Become A Grammy-Winning Hit?
Alannah Myles’ “Black Velvet” became a Grammy-winning hit due to its swagger, powerful chorus, and its status as an ode to Elvis Presley. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 charts and earned Myles the Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1991. Its inclusion on a demo led to her being signed by Atlantic Records, highlighting its initial appeal.
An ode to Elvis Presley, Alannah Myles’ “Black Velvet” was included on the three-track demo that eventually led to her being signed by Atlantic Records. The track, oozing with swagger and that giant chorus, would top the Billboard Hot 100 charts for two weeks and would earn Myles the Myles the Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1991.
14. What Makes Blink-182’s “I Miss You” An Enduring Track?
Blink-182’s “I Miss You” remains an enduring track due to its emotional lyrics and memorable chorus. Despite being memed in recent years, it is one of blink-182’s most endearing songs. Its relatable themes of longing and regret have resonated with fans, making it a staple in their catalog. The song’s simple yet effective structure contributes to its lasting appeal.
“Where are you? And I’m so sorry!” Sure, “I Miss You” feels more like a meme than a song in recent years, but it remains one of blink-182’s most enduring and endearing tracks in their catalog. And never forget when belting the chorus, it’s “yead,” not “head.”
15. How Did Damn Yankees’ “High Enough” Become A Massive Power Ballad?
Damn Yankees’ “High Enough” became a massive power ballad due to the collaboration of Ted Nugent, Tommy Shaw, Jack Blades, and Michael Cartellone. The song’s success propelled their self-titled debut album to sell two million copies and peaked on the Billboard Hot 100 chart at number 3. The combination of talented musicians and a heartfelt melody contributed to its popularity.
When the world was introduced to Ted Nugent, the last thing anyone thought — and this likely includes Uncle Ted, himself — was that a massive power ballad was in his future. But that’s what happened when the Motor City Mad Man joined forces with Styx’s Tommy Shaw, Night Ranger’s Jack Blades and future Lynyrd Skynyrd drummer Michael Cartellone to form Damn Yankees. The band’s self-titled 1990 debut would go on to sell two million copies, and it was thanks to this massive power ballad, which peaked on the Billboard Hot 100 chart at number 3.
16. Why Was Bad English’s “When I See You Smile” Their Biggest Hit?
Bad English’s “When I See You Smile” was their biggest hit because it was written by Diane Warren and featured members from The Babys and Journey. As the second single from their self-titled 1989 debut, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1989. The combination of talented musicians and Warren’s songwriting expertise contributed to its success.
Yet another song written by Diane Warren! (BTW: She pops up another time later in this list.) Bad English – the supergroup made up of The Babys’ John Waite and Ricky Phillips and Journey’s Neal Schon, Deen Castronovo and Jonathan Cain, who was in The Babys and Journey – was only around for two albums. “When I See You Smile” was the second single released from their self-tited 1989 debut, and it was their biggest hit topping the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1989.
17. What Makes Queensryche’s “Silent Lucidity” A Tender And Haunting Power Ballad?
Queensryche’s “Silent Lucidity” is a tender and haunting power ballad because of Geoff Tate’s stunning vocals and Chris DeGarmo’s songwriting. The song’s lyrics and melody create a mesmerizing atmosphere, making it a standout track. Its themes of facing fears and exploring the mind resonate deeply with listeners.
“It’s a place where you will learn/To face your fears, retrace the years/And ride the whims of your mind/Commanding in another world/Suddenly you hear and see/This magic new dimension.” This power ballad is as tender as it is beautifully haunting. We have Geoff Tates’ stunning vocals and guitarist Chris DeGarmo’s songwriting to thank for that.
18. How Did Roxette’s “It Must Have Been Love” Become An International Hit?
Roxette’s “It Must Have Been Love” became an international hit after being re-released in 1990 as part of the Pretty Woman soundtrack. Originally released in 1987 as a Christmas song in Sweden, its re-release and inclusion in the film propelled it to global success. Marie Fredriksson’s dynamic voice contributed significantly to the song’s enduring appeal.
Fun fact: This Roxette hit was first released in 1987 as “It Must Have Been Love (Christmas for the Broken Hearted).” (Yeah, it was originally a Christmas song!) It was only released in the duo’s native Sweden but would be edited and re-released internationally in 1990 as part of the soundtrack for the hit film Pretty Woman. Singer Marie Fredriksson would die in December 2019 from a brain tumor, but songs like “It Must Have Been Love” will live on forever as examples of her dynamic voice.
19. Why Was Slaughter’s “Fly To The Angels” A Successful Second Single?
Slaughter’s “Fly To The Angels” was a successful second single because it followed the popular formula of rock bands releasing a rocker as the first single and a power ballad as the second. The quality of the song, particularly Mark Slaughter’s vocal performance, made it stand out. Its emotional delivery and catchy melody contributed to its success.
By the time Slaughter released their 1990 debut Stick It to Ya, there was already a popular formula in place for many rock bands releasing a new LP: First single is the rocker, and the second single is the power ballad. While the formula was successful, you still need quality songs for it to work. Slaughter definitely had them, especially with their second single “Fly To The Angels.” Just thinking about the notes Mark Slaughter hits during the chorus makes my throat hurt.
20. What Connection Does Bryan Adams’ “Heaven” Have With Journey?
Bryan Adams’ “Heaven” has a connection with Journey as Adams toured with Journey while they supported their Frontiers LP, and then-Journey drummer Steve Smith plays on “Heaven.” Some think the song is reminiscent of Journey’s “Faithfully.” The collaboration and shared experiences between the artists influenced the song’s creation.
“Heaven” was a massive hit for Bryan Adams and was his first number-one single in the U.S. If you think the song is reminiscent of Journey’s “Faithfully,” you’re not wrong; Adams toured with Journey while they supported their Frontiers LP, and then-Journey drummer Steve Smith plays on “Heaven.” The song is so dreamy, it lent itself to a particularly swoon-worthy scene from Magic Mike XXL.
21. Why Was Tina Turner’s “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” A Smash Hit?
Tina Turner’s “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” was a smash hit because it was the theme song for the 1985 film Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, in which she also starred. Her powerful vocals and the song’s anthemic quality resonated with audiences. Following her comeback album Private Dancer, this song solidified her status as a music icon.
After Tina Turner’s smash comeback album Private Dancer, many were likely wondering what her next move was. It turns out it was starring alongside Mel Gibson in 1985’s Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome and singing the film’s theme “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome).” And by singing, we mean absolutely belting the hell out of it. It’s one of Turner’s best songs, which is saying something considering her incredible catalog of work.
22. How Did Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris” Become A Massive International Hit?
Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris” became a massive international hit after being written for the 1998 film City of Angels. Its inclusion in the film and its booming chorus made it a crossover hit. The song’s emotional resonance and catchy melody contributed to its widespread popularity.
A number of songs on this list are featured on soundtracks. It makes sense due to the bombastic, dramatic nature of power ballads. In the case of Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris,” it was written for the 1998 film City of Angels starring Nicolas Cage and Meg Ryan. It went on to become a massive crossover international hit. And that booming chorus…wow! It still blows us away to this day.
23. What Is Notable About Lita Ford & Ozzy Osbourne’s “Close My Eyes Forever”?
Lita Ford & Ozzy Osbourne’s “Close My Eyes Forever” is notable for being the artist’s biggest hits in their entire catalog. As the third single from Ford’s self-titled 1988 studio album, it peaked on the Billboard Hot 100 at #8. The duet between Ford and Osbourne brought together two distinct rock voices, creating a memorable and successful collaboration.
A number of the songs on this power ballad ranking have something interesting in common: They’re often the artist’s biggest hits in their entire catalog. This duet of Lita Ford and Ozzy Osbourne is no exception. The third single from Ford’s self-titled 1988 studio album, “Close My Eyes Forever” who peak on the Billboard Hot 100 at #8.
24. What Makes Cinderella’s “Don’t Know What You Got (Til It’s Gone)” So Poetic?
Cinderella’s “Don’t Know What You Got (Til It’s Gone)” is poetic because it reflects the relatable experience of a relationship going sour without understanding why. The song’s lyrics capture the sense of confusion and regret, making it one of the most realistic songs on this list. Its emotional honesty resonates with listeners who have experienced similar situations.
“I can’t tell ya baby what went wrong…”There’s something very poetic about this power ballad from Cinderella. Who hasn’t been in a relationship – romantic or not – that went sour, and you just couldn’t figure out why? It might be one of the most realistic and relatable songs on this entire list.
25. Why Is The Bangles’ “Eternal Flame” Significant In Their Career?
The Bangles’ “Eternal Flame” is significant because it was the band’s last huge hit before their breakup in 1989. The song’s success allowed them to end their initial run with a number one hit, marking a high point in their career. Despite reuniting later, “Eternal Flame” remains one of their most recognizable songs.
“Eternal Flame” may have burned bright for The Bangles, but it ended up being the band’s last huge hit before their breakup in 1989. They would reunite about a decade later, but if a band is going to break up, there’s nothing like going out with a number one hit song. Talk about sun shining through the rain, right?
26. What Makes Velvet Revolver’s “Fall To Pieces” Stand Out?
Velvet Revolver’s “Fall To Pieces” stands out due to Scott Weiland’s unique vocals and Slash’s guitar solo. From their 2004 debut LP Contraband, Weiland’s vocals truly open up on the song’s chorus, and Slash’s guitar solo elevates the track. As a supergroup formed in the early 2000s, their collaboration produced a unique blend of talent.
Velvet Revolver was one of a number of supergroups to emerge in the early aughts. They were together for only six years, but that time produced some great tunes, including this power ballad from their 2004 debut LP Contraband. Scott Weiland’s unique vocals truly open up on the song’s sing-a-long chorus, and the track serves as yet another example of how a Slash guitar solo can take a song to another level.
27. What Is The Story Behind Mr. Big’s “To Be With You”?
Mr. Big’s “To Be With You” was inspired by Eric Martin’s feelings for a girl who had boyfriends who treated her poorly. In an interview in 2011, Martin said, “This girl had a lot of boyfriends who treated her like sh-t. I wanted to be the knight in shining armor, wanted to be with her. She wasn’t having it. It never came to play.” His unrequited feelings led to the creation of this hit song.
When you’re waiting on a line just to be the next to be with someone, you got it bad. Turns out Mr. Big’s frontman Eric Martin did have it bad for someone he knew years before the song became a hit. Martin would say in an interview in 2011, “This girl had a lot of boyfriends who treated her like sh-t. I wanted to be the knight in shining armor, wanted to be with her. She wasn’t having it. It never came to play.” It’s too bad for her because Martin clearly had strong feelings for this woman. At least a great tune came out of it.
28. Why Was Extreme’s “More Than Words” A Departure From Their Metal Music?
Extreme’s “More Than Words” was a departure from their metal music because it featured acoustic guitars and harmony vocals by Gary Cherone and Nuno Bettencourt. Despite sounding nothing like their metal tracks, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The tender tune showcased a different side of the band, appealing to a broader audience.
Brilliantly described by Max (Adam Pally) on the cult sitcom Happy Endings as “two men playing acoustic guitar at each other,” “More Than Words” sounded nothing like any of Extreme’s metal music. Regardless, the tender tune featuring the beautiful harmony vocals of Gary Cherone and Nuno Bettencourt would go on to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
29. What Impact Did Van Halen’s “Why Can’t This Be Love” Have On Their Career?
Van Halen’s “Why Can’t This Be Love” had a significant impact on their career as the first single of the “Van Hagar” era. Its success helped their seventh studio album, 5150, sell over six million copies. The keyboard-heavy power ballad made a statement and demonstrated the band’s ability to evolve and remain popular.
The first single of the “Van Hagar” era of Van Halen was this keyboard-happy power ballad. What a statement! Of course, “Why Can’t This Be Love” definitely had what it takes. It helped Van Halen’s seventh studio album, 5150, sell over six million copies.
30. How Did Cheap Trick’s “The Flame” Revive Their Career?
Cheap Trick’s “The Flame” revived their career by becoming their first top 40 hit since 1979. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 at the request of Epic Records, who believed it would be a number one hit. Its success brought them back into the mainstream and solidified their legacy.
“You were the first, you’ll be the last.” SWOON!Before “The Flame,” Cheap Trick hadn’t had a top 40 hit since 1979. At the request of Epic Records, they had their choice of two songs the label was certain were going to be number one hits. Cheap Trick chose “The Flame,” and as predicted, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100. (For what it’s worth: The other songs was “Look Away,” which was released by Chicago in September 1988, and it also topped the charts.)
31. What Historical Significance Does Scorpions’ “Wind Of Change” Hold?
Scorpions’ “Wind of Change” holds historical significance as it is tied to the end of the Cold War and the Soviet Union. Klaus Meine was inspired to write the song after Scorpions participated in the Moscow Music Peace Festival in August 1989. Its message of peace and change resonated globally, making it an anthem for the era.
Not every power ballad is about romantic love; sometimes, they’re an agent of peace. Such was the case of “Wind of Change” from Scorpions. Klaus Meine was inspired to write the song after Scorpions took part in the Moscow Music Peace Festival in August 1989. Shortly there after, Meine would write this epic tune that, to this day, is historically tied to the end of the Cold War and the Soviet Union. Of course, there’s also the conspiracy theory that the CIA actually wrote “Wind of Change,” but we’ll let you dive into that on your own via the podcast of the same name.
32. Why Is Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” Considered A Power Ballad?
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” is considered a power ballad due to its musical escalation and expressive formula that combines uplifting music with sentimental themes. The guitar work from Allen Collins and Gary Rossington enhances its emotional impact. According to the definition from the Cambridge University Press, it fits the criteria of a power ballad.
“Free Bird” isn’t typically in the power ballad conversation, but when you examine the classic tune per the aforementioned definition from the Cambridge University Press, it totally is! “Constant escalation and an expressive formula that combines the euphoric uplift created by rousing music with sentimental themes and ploys”? Um, yeah…”Free Bird” has that and then some! The guitar work from Allen Collins and Gary Rossington alone should be enough.
33. What Film Is Phil Collins’ “Against All Odds” Associated With?
Phil Collins’ “Against All Odds” is associated with the 1984 film of the same name, starring Rachel Ward, Jeff Bridges, and James Woods. Although the film was not a major hit, the song became highly successful. Collins wrote the tune for the movie.
Ever have a drunk cry to this Phil Collins classic after a brutal breakup? No? Just me? Oh, well…it’s quite therapeutic, as is belting out the anthemic chorus. Collins wrote the tune for the 1984 film of the same name that starred Rachel Ward, Jeff Bridges and James Woods. The film wasn’t a big hit, but the song sure was! It was even nominated for Best Original Song at the 1985 Academy Awards. It lost out to Stevie Wonder’s “I Just Called to Say I Love You” from The Woman in Red, which is really one of Wonder’s most pedestrian tunes, but that’s a rant for another day.
34. Why Might Celine Dion’s “It’s All Coming Back To Me Now” Sound Like A Meat Loaf Song?
Celine Dion’s “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” might sound like a Meat Loaf song because it was written by Jim Steinman, who also wrote Meat Loaf’s Bat Out of Hell albums. The song’s dramatic and theatrical style aligns with Steinman’s signature sound. This connection gives it a familiar feel for fans of Meat Loaf.
Okay…now at this point, some of you might be mad to see Celine Dion on this list, but do yourself a favor and just revisit this epic from the singer’s 1996 hit album Falling into You. BTW: If you’re thinking that “It’s All Coming Back To Me Now” sounds a lot like a Meat Loaf song, it’s because it was written by composer Jim Steinman. He’s best known for writing Meat Loaf’s Bat Out of Hell and Bat Out of Hell II: Back into Hell.
35. What Is Special About Def Leppard’s “Bringin’ On The Heartbreak”?
Def Leppard’s “Bringin’ on the Heartbreak” is special because it introduced many people to their trademark group vocal. The song builds into the chorus while showcasing Joe Elliott’s vocals. From their 1981 LP High ‘n’ Dry, it highlights Def Leppard’s ability to blend hard rock with melodic elements.
Many people were introduced to Def Leppard’s trademark group vocal via “Bringin’ on the Heartbreak” from their 1981 LP High ‘n’ Dry. A number of power ballads from Def Leppard could’ve made this list, but there’s something special about how this track builds into the chorus while also giving Joe Elliott plenty of time to shine on his own.
36. How Did REO Speedwagon’s “Keep On Loving You” Elevate Their Stardom?
REO Speedwagon’s “Keep On Loving You” elevated their stardom by becoming a massive power ballad that helped the Illinois-based band achieve a new level of fame. As the lead single from their ninth studio album Hi Infidelity, the song contributed to the album becoming the biggest-selling album of 1981. Its success broadened their audience and solidified their place in rock history.
The lead single from REO Speedwagon’s ninth studio album Hi Infidelity, “Keep On Loving You” was a massive power ballad that helped the Illinois-based band achieve a new level of stardom. Hi Infidelity would go on to be the biggest-selling album of 1981. This power ballad definitely helped make that happen.
37. What Makes Pat Benatar’s “Shadows Of The Night” Stand Out?
Pat Benatar’s “Shadows of the Night” stands out because it finds her walking the line between toughness and sweetness. Her powerful vocals and the song’s themes of vulnerability and strength make it memorable. The lyrics capture a balance between being strong and allowing oneself to be vulnerable.
Pat Benatar could be (and still is) an utter badass, but she also has a number of hits that showed off her sensitive side. “Shadows of the Night” finds Benatar walking the line between toughness and sweetness, and she walks that line brilliantly. (“You can cry, tough baby, it’s alright/You can let me down easy, but not tonight.”) Her powerful vocals certainly don’t hurt matters either.
38. What Prompted Jon Bon Jovi To Write “Blaze of Glory”?
Jon Bon Jovi was prompted to write “Blaze of Glory” after Emilio Estevez wanted Bon Jovi’s “Wanted Dead or Alive” for his movie Young Guns II. Bon Jovi declined and ended up writing this song and an entire soundtrack for the film. The themes of the Wild West and Billy the Kid inspired the song.
“Blaze of Glory” was Jon Bon Jovi’s first solo single, and out the gate, the track topped the Billboard Hot 100. Written for the 1990 film Young Guns II, the song came to be after Emilio Estevez wanted Bon Jovi’s “Wanted Dead or Alive” for his movie. JBJ declined and ended up writing this song and a whole soundtrack. (Jon even makes an uncredited cameo in the film, which was his first appearance in any film.) While there are theme similarities between “Blaze of Glory” and “Wanted Dead or Alive,” the former was certainly a better fit for a film about Billy the Kid and truly evokes that spirit of the Wild West.
39. What Impact Did “Heaven” Have On Warrant’s Career?
“Heaven” had a significant impact on Warrant’s career, helping propel their 1989 debut album Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich to being certified double platinum. The song peaked on the Billboard Hot 100 at number two. Its success broadened their audience and solidified their place in the music scene.
If you ever questioned what a great power ballad could do for a band, look no further than Warrant. The second single from their 1989 debut album Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich, “Heaven” would help propel the album to being certified double platinum and would peak on the Billboard Hot 100 at number two. The song that prevented Warrant from topping the chart? Milli Vanilli’s “Girl I’
