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Steve Peake

Stephen's 80s Music Blog

By Steve Peake, About.com Guide to 80s Music

Damn You, Kevin Cronin! You've Worn Down My Defenses

Wednesday April 18, 2007
It came over me in a wave today as I drove home from work, letting out figurative and literal sighs of relief as I created ever more distance between myself and my office. As the familiar keyboard strains of REO Speedwagon's No. 1 hit from 1985, "Can't Fight This Feeling," came across my satellite radio feed, I quickly determined, based on years and layers of bias, that I would change the channel quickly. But instead I stopped and listened, slowly realizing that this song I've dismissed with such vigor for more than a decade is actually a nearly flawless, escalating ballad of devotion whose songwriting quality cannot be denied by even the most steely prejudice. So, in my best attempt at a Will Ferrell impression: Damn you, Kevin, damn you, for writing such a good song and thereby forcing me to admit that I enjoy listening to it... from time to time.

More REO Speedwagon Resources

Comments

April 18, 2007 at 9:44 pm
(1) 80sfan says:

Damn I might have to stop turning that channel myself. It’s become such a habit that I might be missing something. During the 80s I think they fell victim to the overplay bug that I couldn’t take it anymore. Well time can heal just about anything and with their new CD making some waves I just might have to stop and listen for a change.

May 21, 2007 at 7:11 pm
(2) D says:

I think that song still sucks, regardless of technically how well written, composed, and executed it is. Just not my bag i suppose.

May 21, 2007 at 7:11 pm
(3) D says:

I think that song still sucks, regardless of technically how well written, composed, and executed it is. Just not my bag i suppose.

December 28, 2007 at 11:04 am
(4) k says:

Sorry, but this song is not as good as their rockin songs….and their new cd is aweful…Bring back Gary…..

March 25, 2009 at 2:15 pm
(5) Richrath fan says:

Gary Richrath WAS REO Speedwagon. They have not come close to being the same since he left.

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