About the song
“It Must Have Been Love” by Roxette
“It Must Have Been Love” is one of the most iconic power ballads of the late 20th century, made globally famous by the Swedish pop duo Roxette, consisting of Marie Fredriksson and Per Gessle. First released in 1987 and later re-released in 1990 for the soundtrack of the hit romantic comedy Pretty Woman, the song became an international sensation and remains one of Roxette’s most enduring and beloved hits. With its soaring vocals, poignant lyrics, and emotional depth, “It Must Have Been Love” captures the heartbreak of lost love in a way that resonates across generations.
Origins and Evolution
The song’s history is somewhat unique. The original version of “It Must Have Been Love” was released in 1987 as a Christmas single in Sweden, titled “It Must Have Been Love (Christmas for the Broken Hearted).” While it achieved success domestically, it wasn’t until three years later that the song would reach international fame.
In 1990, the song received a second life when it was included in the soundtrack for the blockbuster film Pretty Woman, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. The track was edited to remove the Christmas references and given a slightly new arrangement. This version, with its emotional intensity and cinematic feel, became a perfect fit for the film’s romantic narrative. The exposure from Pretty Woman propelled the song to the top of the charts around the world.
Musical Composition and Style
Musically, “It Must Have Been Love” is a textbook example of a late-80s/early-90s pop ballad. It features a soft piano introduction, gradually building with orchestral elements and dramatic drums. Marie Fredriksson’s lead vocal performance is particularly noteworthy; her voice effortlessly conveys a mix of vulnerability, strength, and sorrow.
The melody is simple yet haunting, which contributes to its emotional power. The use of dynamics—starting soft and growing in intensity—mirrors the emotional journey of the lyrics. The production, overseen by Clarence Öfwerman, is polished but not overproduced, allowing the emotional weight of the song to shine through.
Lyrics and Emotional Themes
Lyrically, “It Must Have Been Love” is a reflection on a love that has ended. The title phrase—“It must have been love, but it’s over now”—perfectly encapsulates the core emotion of the song: the bittersweet acceptance of a past relationship. The narrator looks back on what once was, grappling with the realization that the love is gone, despite how real and beautiful it felt at the time.
Lines like “Lay a whisper on my pillow, leave the winter on the ground” evoke vivid imagery and set the tone of melancholy and introspection. The song does not dwell on anger or blame; instead, it focuses on the sadness of something beautiful coming to an end. This makes it incredibly relatable to anyone who has experienced heartbreak.
Global Impact and Reception
“It Must Have Been Love” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States in June 1990 and charted highly in numerous other countries, including the UK, Australia, Germany, and Canada. It became one of Roxette’s biggest hits and remains a staple on adult contemporary and love song playlists.
The song’s inclusion in Pretty Woman helped cement its place in pop culture history. The combination of the film’s success and the song’s emotional resonance created a lasting association that continues to introduce the track to new audiences.
Legacy
More than three decades after its re-release, “It Must Have Been Love” remains a defining song of its era. It has been covered by numerous artists and used in films, television shows, and commercials. Marie Fredriksson’s powerful performance, especially in light of her passing in 2019, is remembered as one of the most heartfelt vocal deliveries in pop music.
The song’s universal themes of love and loss, combined with Roxette’s musical craftsmanship, ensure that it will continue to touch hearts for many years to come. It is not just a song about love ending—it is a song about remembering love, honoring its beauty, and finding strength in moving on.
Conclusion
“It Must Have Been Love” is more than just a ballad—it’s an emotional experience that captures the pain and beauty of lost love. Through heartfelt lyrics, a haunting melody, and an unforgettable vocal performance, Roxette created a timeless classic that continues to speak to the human heart. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to express what words alone often cannot.