About the song
“Heaven”, a song that needs no introduction for many. But for those unfamiliar with this classic, or perhaps coming to it with fresh ears, let’s delve a little deeper. Released in 1984, “Heaven” wasn’t initially intended to be the chart-topping juggernaut it became. It was born on the road, a product of a collaborative spirit between Adams and his long-time songwriting partner, Jim Vallance.
During 1983, Adams found himself opening for the mighty Journey on their Frontiers Tour. The experience clearly left its mark. Vallance himself recounts how “Heaven” was inspired by Journey’s power ballad, “Faithfully”. This influence is evident in the song’s soaring melody and themes of devotion and longing. However, “Heaven” takes these elements and crafts something distinctly Adamsian.
Adams, known for his unpretentious rock and roll with a strong dose of sincerity, imbues “Heaven” with a relatable vulnerability. The song doesn’t delve into theatrics or complex metaphors. Instead, it speaks a straightforward language of the heart. The lyrics paint a picture of a love that transcends the ordinary, a love that feels like a personal heaven. Lines like “I’m lost in your eyes, I don’t wanna wake up from this dream.” and “Everything I do, I do it for you.” are delivered with a charming earnestness that resonates deeply with listeners.
The musical arrangement is equally key to the song’s success. The intro, with its fingerpicked acoustic guitar, sets a gentle, intimate mood. The drums and bass enter subtly, building a foundation for the song’s emotional journey. Adams’ vocals take center stage, his trademark rasp perfectly conveying the yearning lyrics. The chorus explodes with a potent mix of power chords and soaring backing vocals, a testament to the transformative power of love.
“Heaven” wasn’t an immediate smash. Originally intended for the film “A Night in Heaven” (1983), it wasn’t even released as a single at the time. However, its inclusion on Adams’ landmark album, Reckless (1984), changed everything. Reckless was a juggernaut, propelled in part by the success of singles like “Run to You” and “Summer of ’69”. But “Heaven” had a way of sneaking up on listeners. Radio stations began picking it up, captivated by its raw emotion and timeless message. The song climbed the charts, eventually reaching the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
“Heaven” transcended genre and generation. It became a wedding staple, a song for slow dances, a soundtrack for countless declarations of love. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universality of its themes. Who hasn’t, at some point, felt lost in the eyes of someone they adore? Who hasn’t yearned for a love that feels like a personal heaven? In a world often focused on cynicism and detachment, “Heaven” offers a refreshing dose of heartfelt sincerity. It’s a reminder of the transformative power of love, a sentiment that resonates as strongly today as it did when the song was first released.
Video
Lyrics
“Heaven”
There was only you and me
We were young and wild and free
Now nothin’ can take you away from me
We’ve been down that road before
But that’s over now
You keep me comin’ back for more
Baby, you’re all that I want
When you’re lyin’ here in my arms
I’m findin’ it hard to believe
We’re in heaven
And love is all that I need
And I found it there in your heart
It isn’t too hard to see
We’re in heaven
Oh, once in your life you find someone
Who will turn your world around
Bring you up when you’re feelin’ down
Yeah, nothin’ could change what you mean to me
Oh, there’s lots that I could say
But just hold me now
‘Cause our love will light the way
And, baby, you’re all that I want
When you’re lyin’ here in my arms
I’m findin’ it hard to believe
We’re in heaven
Yeah, love is all that I need
And I found it there in your heart
It isn’t too hard to see
We’re in heaven
I’ve been waitin’ for so long
For somethin’ to arrive
For love to come along
Now our dreams are comin’ true
Through the good times and the bad
Yeah, I’ll be standin’ there by you
And, baby, you’re all that I want
When you’re lyin’ here in my arms
I’m findin’ it hard to believe
We’re in heaven
And love is all that I need
And I found it there in your heart
It isn’t too hard to see
We’re in heaven, heaven
You’re all that I want
You’re all that I need
We’re in heaven
We’re in heaven
We’re in heaven