About the song
“PERHAPS LOVE” INTRODUCTION
John Denver’s “Perhaps Love” stands as a touching collaboration between the renowned folk singer and opera superstar Plácido Domingo, marking a unique intersection of genres that captivated audiences upon its release in 1981. Featured prominently on Domingo’s album of the same name, the song not only showcases Denver’s lyrical prowess but also highlights his versatility as an artist.
The genesis of “Perhaps Love” is deeply personal, rooted in Denver’s emotional turmoil during a period of separation from his wife, Annie Martell. Contrary to popular belief centered on his hit “Annie’s Song,” Annie herself revealed that “Perhaps Love” held a special place in her heart, emphasizing its significance in their relationship. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and Denver’s earnest delivery resonate with themes of love and longing, making it a poignant expression of personal introspection.
Produced by Milt Okun, the album’s visionary producer, “Perhaps Love” was initially an unconventional idea pairing Denver, known for his folk ballads, with Domingo’s operatic tenor. Okun’s strategic promotion of the song defied expectations, particularly when a top radio station in Philadelphia embraced it fervently, catapulting it into mainstream success. This unexpected support paved the way for broader airplay and cemented the song’s status as a crossover hit.
Lee Holdridge, the album’s conductor, acknowledged the pioneering nature of Denver and Domingo’s collaboration, noting its influence on subsequent “popera” phenomena such as the Three Tenors and Andrea Bocelli. This fusion of genres not only expanded the song’s appeal but also broadened the audience for both artists, showcasing their ability to transcend musical boundaries.
“Perhaps Love” was released as a single by CBS Masterworks, a move that initially wasn’t planned due to the album’s classical leanings. However, the overwhelming success of the album prompted Columbia Records to champion the single, leading to its impressive chart performance and enduring popularity. By 2008, the song had sold nearly four million copies, a testament to its timeless appeal and emotional resonance.
Beyond its initial release, “Perhaps Love” has seen reinterpretations by both Denver and Domingo. Denver recorded a solo version for his “Seasons of the Heart” album, while Domingo collaborated with his son and other opera luminaries on subsequent recordings, demonstrating the song’s enduring legacy in the realm of crossover music.
In essence, “Perhaps Love” remains a poignant testament to the power of musical collaboration and the universal theme of love, capturing the hearts of listeners across generations with its sincerity and beauty. As a milestone in both John Denver’s and Plácido Domingo’s careers, the song continues to inspire and evoke deep emotions, ensuring its place in the annals of musical history.
Video
Lyrics
Perhaps love is like a resting place
A shelter from the storm
It exists to give you comfort
It is there to keep you warm
And in those times of trouble
When you are almost alone
The memory of love will bring you homePerhaps love is like a window
Perhaps an open door
It invites you to come closer
It wants to show you more
And even if you lose yourself
And don’t know what to do
The memory of love will see you throughOh, love to some is like a cloud
To some as strong as steel
For some a way of living
For some a way to feel
And some say love is holding on
And some say letting go
And some say love is everything
And some say they don’t knowPerhaps love is like the ocean
Full of conflict, full of change
Like a fire when it’s cold outside
Or thunder when it rains
If I should live forever
And all my dreams come true
My memories of love will be of you
Writer(s): John Denver
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