About the song
Laura Branigan’s interpretation of “The Power of Love” remains one of the most powerful and emotional renditions of the celebrated ballad in the 1980s. Originally written by Gunther Mende, Candy DeRouge, Jennifer Rush, and Mary Susan Applegate, the song was first recorded by Jennifer Rush in 1984 and became an international hit. Branigan’s version, released in 1987 as part of her album Touch, introduced the song to an even wider audience, particularly in the United States, and solidified her reputation as one of the great voices of her generation. With her unmistakable vocal range and passionate delivery, Branigan gave the song a distinctive emotional depth that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release.
At its heart, “The Power of Love” is a soaring love ballad that captures the overwhelming intensity and vulnerability of being deeply in love. The lyrics describe love not just as an emotion but as a force that can be transcendent, almost spiritual, capable of lifting and transforming those who experience it. Laura Branigan’s delivery emphasizes this theme with both tenderness and explosive power, alternating between intimate whispers and dramatic high notes. Her voice carries a rawness that conveys the emotional highs and lows of devotion, longing, and surrender.
One of the defining features of Branigan’s rendition is her ability to balance technical brilliance with heartfelt sincerity. While she was known for her dynamic vocal strength, particularly in dance-pop hits like “Gloria” and “Self Control”, in “The Power of Love” she demonstrates her mastery of balladry. The song builds gradually, beginning with a restrained intensity before expanding into sweeping choruses that allow her voice to soar. This progression mirrors the emotional journey described in the lyrics: a quiet acknowledgment of love’s presence evolving into the recognition of its overwhelming force.
The production of Branigan’s version also deserves attention. Produced by David Kershenbaum, the arrangement emphasizes lush instrumentation and layered synthesizers, hallmarks of the 1980s pop sound. Yet the production does not overshadow Branigan’s voice; instead, it creates a dramatic backdrop that enhances the emotional weight of her performance. The interplay between orchestral elements, piano, and electronic textures creates a timeless quality, ensuring that the song remains both grounded in its era and yet universally relatable.
When discussing “The Power of Love”, it is impossible to ignore its enduring legacy and the way it has been reinterpreted by different artists. Celine Dion’s later version in the 1990s is perhaps the most globally recognized, but Laura Branigan’s interpretation holds a unique place in the song’s history. For many listeners, Branigan’s rendition was the first introduction to the song, and her passionate performance left a lasting impression. Her version demonstrated her versatility as an artist, proving that she could move seamlessly from energetic pop anthems to deeply emotional ballads.
Beyond its musical qualities, the song’s themes speak to something universal: the transformative nature of love. Lines that describe being held in someone’s arms or finding strength through intimacy connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. Branigan’s voice, with its blend of strength and fragility, communicates this duality beautifully. She manages to capture both the joy of surrendering to love and the fear that comes with vulnerability. In this way, her performance feels authentic and relatable, as though she is giving voice to emotions many listeners have felt but may struggle to articulate.
The reception of Branigan’s version was positive, and although it did not reach the same chart-topping success as some of her earlier hits, it remains a fan favorite and a testament to her artistry. It showcased her ability to inhabit a song fully, to make it her own even when it had been performed by others. This interpretive gift is one of the reasons why Laura Branigan continues to be remembered and celebrated today.
In retrospect, “The Power of Love” exemplifies Laura Branigan’s strengths as both a vocalist and an interpreter of song. Her version captures the grandeur and intimacy of love simultaneously, offering a performance that is both technically impressive and emotionally authentic. For fans of 1980s pop and for anyone who has experienced the overwhelming force of love, her rendition of the song remains a moving and unforgettable listening experience. It stands as a reminder not only of her remarkable talent but also of the enduring ability of music to express the deepest of human emotions.