About the song
“Keep On Loving You” stands as a quintessential power ballad of the 1980s, immortalized by American rock band REO Speedwagon. Written by Kevin Cronin and featuring the evocative lead guitar of Gary Richrath, the song made its debut on the band’s groundbreaking 1980 album, *Hi Infidelity*. This album not only revitalized REO Speedwagon’s career but also solidified their place in the annals of rock history.
The genesis of “Keep On Loving You” reveals an interesting backstory. Cronin, primarily known as a guitarist, surprised his bandmates by composing the song on piano during a rehearsal session. Initially met with skepticism, Cronin’s heartfelt ballad about love and perseverance eventually won over the band. As he recounted, the transition from a simple piano ballad to a powerful anthem was organic, with Gary Richrath’s electrifying guitar adding the signature “power” to what would become a classic power ballad.
Released as a single in 1981, “Keep On Loving You” soared to the top of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts, marking REO Speedwagon’s first number-one hit. Its success was unprecedented, especially considering the initial doubts from their record label, Epic Records, about its single potential. The song’s emotional resonance, coupled with its anthemic chorus and Richrath’s memorable guitar solos, captivated audiences worldwide.
The music video for “Keep On Loving You,” featuring Cronin discussing relationship woes with a therapist interspersed with band performance shots, became an early staple on MTV. Its inclusion in numerous soft rock compilations and REO Speedwagon’s greatest hits albums further cemented its status as a timeless classic.
Critically acclaimed, “Keep On Loving You” remains REO Speedwagon’s most iconic song. Matt Wardlaw of Ultimate Classic Rock hailed it as their definitive track, underscoring its enduring popularity and cultural impact. Beyond its commercial success, the song encapsulates the band’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with powerful instrumentation, influencing countless bands and artists in the realm of rock balladry.
In conclusion, “Keep On Loving You” not only defined a pivotal moment in REO Speedwagon’s career but also became a touchstone for 1980s rock music. Its legacy continues to resonate, serving as a testament to the band’s musical prowess and Cronin’s songwriting acumen. As a power ballad, it remains timeless, evoking nostalgia and emotion with every listen, ensuring its place in the pantheon of rock classics.
Video
Lyrics
You should have seen by the look in my eyes, baby
There was somethin’ missin’
You should have known by the tone of my voice, maybe
But you didn’t listen
You played dead, but you never bled
Instead you laid still in the grass, all coiled up and hissin’
And though I know all about those men
Still I don’t remember
‘Cause it was us
Baby, way before then, and we’re still together
And I meant
Every word I said
When I said that I loved you I meant that I loved you forever
And I’m gonna keep on lovin’ you
‘Cause it’s the only thing I want to do
I don’t want to sleep, I just want to keep on lovin’ you
And I meant
Every word I said
When I said that I loved you I meant that I loved you forever
And I’m gonna keep on lovin’ you
‘Cause it’s the only thing I want to do
I don’t want to sleep, I just want to keep on lovin’ you
Baby, I’m gonna keep on loving you
‘Cause it’s the only thing I wanna do
I don’t want to sleep, I just want to keep on lovin’ you