About the song
What’s Love Got to Do with It: A Timeless Anthem
“What’s Love Got to Do with It” is an iconic song that transcends time and generations. Penned by Graham Lyle and Terry Britten, it found its ultimate voice in the powerhouse vocals of Tina Turner. Released in 1984 as the lead single from her album “Private Dancer,” the track catapulted Turner to unprecedented heights of fame and solidified her status as a global music icon.
This song marked a pivotal moment in Turner’s career, serving as a triumphant return to the spotlight after a tumultuous personal life. At the age of 44, she defied ageist norms and became the oldest solo female artist to top the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s infectious rhythm, coupled with Turner’s raw emotion and powerful delivery, resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.
“What’s Love Got to Do with It” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s an anthem of empowerment and independence. The lyrics explore themes of heartbreak, resilience, and the realization that love doesn’t necessarily equate to happiness. Turner’s interpretation of the song brought these themes to life with a raw vulnerability that captivated listeners.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal. It has been covered by countless artists and continues to be featured in films, television shows, and commercials. Its inclusion in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2012 further cemented its status as a timeless classic.
Beyond its commercial success, “What’s Love Got to Do with It” has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring and uplifting listeners for decades. It remains a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity and find strength within oneself.
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Lyrics
You must understand, though the touch of your hand makes my pulse react
That it’s only the thrill of boy meeting girl, opposites attract
It’s physical
Only logical
You must try to ignore that it means more than that
Oh-oh-oh, what’s love got to do, got to do with it?
What’s love, but a second-hand emotion?
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
It may seem to you that I’m acting confused when you’re close to me
If I tend to look dazed, I read it some place, I got cause to be
There’s a name for it
There’s a phrase that fits
But whatever the reason, you do it for me
Oh-oh-oh, what’s love got to do, got to do with it?
What’s love, but a second-hand emotion?
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
Who?
I’ve been taking on a new direction
But I have to say
I’ve been thinking about my own protection
It scares me to feel this way
Oh-oh-oh, what’s love got to do, got to do with it?
What’s love, but a second-hand emotion?
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
got to do, got to do with it?
What’s love, but a sweet old-fashioned notion?
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
ooh, got to do with it?
(What’s love? A second-hand emotion)
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?
(What’s love) ooh-ooh (got to do with it?) got to do with it?