Can't Fight This Feeling Mandolin Tab
Can't Fight This Feeling Sheet Music / Mandolin Tab by REO Speedwagon
Music has always been a powerful medium of expression and communication. It has the ability to evoke emotions, stir memories, and bring people together. One such song that has stood the test of time and continues to resonate with listeners is “Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon. This song, released in 1984, has become an iconic ballad and has been covered by numerous artists, cementing its place in music history. In this thesis, we will explore the reasons behind the enduring popularity of “Can’t Fight This Feeling” and analyze its lyrics, music, and impact on listeners.
Background of the Song
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” was written by lead singer Kevin Cronin, who drew inspiration from his own personal experiences. The song was the first single from REO Speedwagon’s album, Wheels Are Turnin’, and became their second number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also reached the top spot on the Adult Contemporary chart and remained on the charts for 16 weeks. The success of the song propelled the album to multi-platinum status and solidified REO Speedwagon’s position as one of the top rock bands of the 1980s.
Lyrics and Meaning
The lyrics of “Can’t Fight This Feeling” revolve around the theme of love and the struggles of admitting and expressing one’s feelings. The song opens with the line “I can’t fight this feeling any longer, and yet I’m still afraid to let it flow,” setting the tone for the rest of the song. The protagonist is torn between his fear of rejection and his overwhelming love for the person he is singing about. The chorus, “And I can’t fight this feeling anymore, I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for,” highlights the internal struggle and confusion faced by the protagonist. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced love and the complexities that come with it.
Melody and Instrumentation
One of the reasons for the song’s success is its memorable melody and instrumentation. The melody is catchy and easy to sing along to, making it a crowd favorite at concerts and karaoke nights. The use of acoustic guitar and piano in the beginning sets a mellow and romantic tone, while the addition of drums and electric guitar in the chorus adds an upbeat and energetic element to the song. The use of harmonies in the vocals also adds depth and emotion to the song, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the music.
Impact on Listeners
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” has had a lasting impact on listeners, both in the 1980s and present day. The song’s relatable lyrics and catchy melody have made it a go-to for anyone experiencing the ups and downs of love. Its popularity has also been attributed to its use in various forms of media, such as movies, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in pop culture. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its continued success on streaming platforms and its frequent appearance on ‘best of’ lists for 80s music.
Cover Versions
Another testament to the song’s popularity is the numerous cover versions that have been recorded over the years. Artists such as Russell Watson, Glee Cast, and Celine Dion have all covered “Can’t Fight This Feeling” in their own unique styles, introducing the song to new audiences and keeping it relevant. The most notable cover is by country music duo, Rascal Flatts, whose rendition reached number two on the U.S. Hot Country Songs chart and won them a Grammy for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. Its relatable lyrics, memorable melody, and impact on listeners have solidified its place as one of the most iconic love ballads of all time. The song continues to resonate with audiences of all ages and will likely continue to do so for generations to come. As Kevin Cronin himself said, “People continue to find their own meaning in the song and that’s all a songwriter can ever hope for.”
Background of the Song
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” was written by lead singer Kevin Cronin, who drew inspiration from his own personal experiences. The song was the first single from REO Speedwagon’s album, Wheels Are Turnin’, and became their second number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also reached the top spot on the Adult Contemporary chart and remained on the charts for 16 weeks. The success of the song propelled the album to multi-platinum status and solidified REO Speedwagon’s position as one of the top rock bands of the 1980s.
Lyrics and Meaning
The lyrics of “Can’t Fight This Feeling” revolve around the theme of love and the struggles of admitting and expressing one’s feelings. The song opens with the line “I can’t fight this feeling any longer, and yet I’m still afraid to let it flow,” setting the tone for the rest of the song. The protagonist is torn between his fear of rejection and his overwhelming love for the person he is singing about. The chorus, “And I can’t fight this feeling anymore, I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for,” highlights the internal struggle and confusion faced by the protagonist. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced love and the complexities that come with it.
Melody and Instrumentation
One of the reasons for the song’s success is its memorable melody and instrumentation. The melody is catchy and easy to sing along to, making it a crowd favorite at concerts and karaoke nights. The use of acoustic guitar and piano in the beginning sets a mellow and romantic tone, while the addition of drums and electric guitar in the chorus adds an upbeat and energetic element to the song. The use of harmonies in the vocals also adds depth and emotion to the song, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the music.
Impact on Listeners
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” has had a lasting impact on listeners, both in the 1980s and present day. The song’s relatable lyrics and catchy melody have made it a go-to for anyone experiencing the ups and downs of love. Its popularity has also been attributed to its use in various forms of media, such as movies, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in pop culture. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its continued success on streaming platforms and its frequent appearance on ‘best of’ lists for 80s music.
Cover Versions
Another testament to the song’s popularity is the numerous cover versions that have been recorded over the years. Artists such as Russell Watson, Glee Cast, and Celine Dion have all covered “Can’t Fight This Feeling” in their own unique styles, introducing the song to new audiences and keeping it relevant. The most notable cover is by country music duo, Rascal Flatts, whose rendition reached number two on the U.S. Hot Country Songs chart and won them a Grammy for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. Its relatable lyrics, memorable melody, and impact on listeners have solidified its place as one of the most iconic love ballads of all time. The song continues to resonate with audiences of all ages and will likely continue to do so for generations to come. As Kevin Cronin himself said, “People continue to find their own meaning in the song and that’s all a songwriter can ever hope for.”
