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

• Compare prices on REO Speedwagon CDs here.
• Top 10 Albums of 1981
• Top 10 Songs of 1981
• Official REO Speedwagon Website with Promotion of the Band's New Album, Find Your Own Way Home