Rise of the Power Ballad : 1987 was the year songs moved you 

1987 was a defining period in music history, especially for the genre of power ballads. These emotionally charged songs, characterized by their heartfelt lyrics, soaring melodies, and powerful vocals, dominated the airwaves and became anthems of love, heartbreak, and longing. This article explores some of the most iconic power ballads of 1987, analyzing their impact on the music industry and their enduring appeal. 

 

Foreigner: “I Want to Know What Love Is” 

“I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner is perhaps one of the most quintessential power ballads of the 1980s. Although initially released in 1984, the song’s influence and popularity continued well into 1987. Written by Mick Jones, the track features gospel-inspired backing vocals by the New Jersey Mass Choir, adding a profound depth to its already poignant lyrics. 

The song’s narrative of searching for love and understanding resonated with listeners worldwide, making it a timeless anthem. Lou Gramm’s impassioned vocals, combined with the lush orchestration and choir harmonies, create an emotional experience that continues to captivate audiences. “I Want to Know What Love Is” topped charts globally, including the Billboard Hot 100, and has been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its status as a classic. 

 

Heart: “Alone” 

Another standout power ballad of 1987 is “Alone” by Heart. Written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, the song was originally recorded by the duo i-Ten in 1983 but gained massive popularity when Heart covered it for their 1987 album, Bad Animals. The band’s rendition turned “Alone” into one of their biggest hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming an enduring staple of 1980s rock. 

“Alone” is a perfect showcase of Ann Wilson’s powerhouse vocals, which convey a raw vulnerability and longing that resonates deeply with listeners. The song’s dramatic build-up, starting with a soft piano intro and culminating in a powerful chorus, exemplifies the quintessential power ballad structure. The emotional intensity and universal theme of unrequited love have made “Alone” a timeless favorite. 

 

Whitesnake: “Here I Go Again” 

Whitesnake’s “Here I Go Again” is another iconic power ballad that dominated the charts in 1987. Originally released in 1982, the song was re-recorded for the band’s self-titled album in 1987, featuring a more polished production and the distinctive guitar work of John Sykes. This new version propelled the song to number one on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying its place in rock history. 

David Coverdale’s soulful vocals and the song’s anthemic chorus make “Here I Go Again” a powerful declaration of resilience and self-reliance. The lyrics, which speak of moving forward and finding one’s way after heartbreak, resonated with a wide audience. The song’s memorable melody and infectious energy have ensured its enduring popularity, making it a staple of classic rock radio. 

 

Cutting Crew: “(I Just) Died in Your Arms” 

“(I Just) Died in Your Arms” by Cutting Crew is a power ballad that perfectly captures the emotional intensity of 1987. Written by lead singer Nick Van Eede, the song was inspired by a tumultuous romantic relationship and features evocative lyrics and a haunting melody. The track became the band’s biggest hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving international success. 

The song’s dramatic opening, characterized by its sweeping synths and powerful guitar riff, immediately grabs the listener’s attention. Van Eede’s passionate delivery of the lyrics, combined with the song’s lush production, creates a sense of longing and desperation that is quintessential to the power ballad genre. “(I Just) Died in Your Arms” remains a defining track of the late 1980s, showcasing the era’s penchant for grand, emotive songs. 

 

Bon Jovi: “Never Say Goodbye” 

Bon Jovi’s “Never Say Goodbye” is a classic example of a power ballad that tugs at the heartstrings. Featured on their 1986 album Slippery When Wet, the song continued to gain popularity throughout 1987. Written by Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora, “Never Say Goodbye” is a nostalgic ode to lasting love and the memories of youth. 

The song’s poignant lyrics, which reflect on the bittersweet nature of high school romances and the passage of time, resonated with many listeners. Bon Jovi’s heartfelt vocals and the song’s melodic guitar solo add to its emotional impact. Although it was never released as a single in the US, “Never Say Goodbye” became a fan favorite and a staple of Bon Jovi’s live performances, illustrating the enduring appeal of power ballads in capturing universal emotions. 

 

Starship: “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” 

“Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” by Starship is a power ballad that epitomizes the triumphant and optimistic spirit of the genre. Written by the legendary songwriting duo of Albert Hammond and Diane Warren, the song was featured in the 1987 film Mannequin and became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. 

Grace Slick and Mickey Thomas deliver powerful vocal performances, conveying a sense of unwavering determination and love. The song’s uplifting lyrics and infectious melody struck a chord with audiences, making it an anthem of perseverance and unity. “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” remains a popular choice for celebrations and has been covered by numerous artists, further highlighting its lasting impact. 

 

U2: “With or Without You” 

U2’s “With or Without You” is a power ballad that showcases the band’s ability to blend introspective lyrics with sweeping musical arrangements. Released as the lead single from their 1987 album The Joshua Tree, the song became one of U2’s most successful hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. 

The song’s haunting melody, driven by The Edge’s atmospheric guitar work and Adam Clayton’s pulsating bassline, creates a sense of longing and tension. Bono’s evocative vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics explore the complexities of love and dependency, resonating with listeners on a deeply emotional level. “With or Without You” has become one of U2’s signature songs, illustrating the band’s talent for crafting timeless power ballads. 

 

REO Speedwagon: “Can’t Fight This Feeling” 

“Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon is another quintessential power ballad that captured the hearts of many in 1987. Although initially released in 1984, the song’s popularity endured, and it remained a beloved track throughout the decade. Written by lead singer Kevin Cronin, the song features heartfelt lyrics about the struggle of confessing love. 

Cronin’s earnest vocal delivery, combined with the song’s soaring melody and rich orchestration, creates an emotional journey that resonates with listeners. The gradual build-up to the powerful chorus exemplifies the dramatic structure of classic power ballads. “Can’t Fight This Feeling” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of REO Speedwagon’s most iconic songs, showcasing the timeless appeal of heartfelt rock ballads. 

 

Aerosmith: “Angel” 

Aerosmith’s “Angel” is a power ballad that showcases the band’s ability to blend rock sensibilities with emotional depth. Released as a single from their 1987 album Permanent Vacation, the song became a major hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100. 

Steven Tyler’s passionate vocals and the song’s sweeping arrangement create a powerful sense of longing and devotion. The lyrics, which express a deep yearning for love and support, resonated with many fans and showcased Aerosmith’s versatility as a band. “Angel” remains a staple of the band’s live performances and a beloved power ballad that continues to tug at listeners’ heartstrings. 

 

Guns N’ Roses: “Sweet Child o’ Mine” 

Although often considered more of a rock anthem, Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child o’ Mine” also embodies many elements of the power ballad genre. Released in 1987 as part of their debut album Appetite for Destruction, the song quickly became one of the band’s biggest hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. 

The song’s iconic guitar riff, played by Slash, and Axl Rose’s emotive vocals create a powerful and memorable track. The lyrics, inspired by Rose’s then-girlfriend Erin Everly, add a layer of tenderness and sincerity to the song. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” blends hard rock with the emotional depth of a power ballad, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences. 

 

The Enduring Appeal of 1987’s Power Ballads 

The power ballads of 1987 represent a unique moment in music history, characterized by their emotional intensity, memorable melodies, and powerful vocal performances. These songs captured the complexities of love, heartbreak, and longing, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level. 

From the anthemic choruses of Whitesnake’s “Here I Go Again” to the haunting melodies of U2’s “With or Without You,” the power ballads of 1987 showcased the ability of music to convey profound emotions and create lasting connections. These songs have stood the test of time, continuing to be celebrated and cherished by fans around the world. 

The ICONIC legacy of these songs endures, proving that the power ballad, with its blend of vulnerability and strength, will always have a special place in the hearts of music lovers.