“What is Love?” is a catchy dance track that took the world by storm in the early 1990s. The song was released by Trinidadian-German Eurodance artist Haddaway in 1993 and quickly became a global hit, peaking at number two on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping the charts in multiple other countries.
At first listen, the song may seem like a fun, upbeat dance tune, but the lyrics are actually quite emotional and heartfelt. In this blog post, we will explore what “What is Love?” is really about and why it resonated with so many people around the world.
The Lyrics
Before we dive into the meaning behind the song, let’s take a closer look at the lyrics. Here are the opening lines:
“What is love?
Baby, don’t hurt me
Don’t hurt me, no more”
The repetition of “don’t hurt me” is a clear indication that Haddaway is singing about a painful experience related to love. The chorus continues:
“What is love?
Baby, don’t hurt me
Don’t hurt me, no more”
The chorus is the most recognizable part of the song, and the repetition of the question “What is love?” throughout the song suggests that Haddaway is searching for something elusive and difficult to define.
The verses of the song tell a story of unrequited love. Here are a few lines from the second verse:
“I don’t know why you’re not there
I give you my love, but you don’t care
So what is right and what is wrong?
Gimme a sign”
Haddaway’s pain is palpable in these lines. He is expressing the frustration and confusion that often come with loving someone who doesn’t love you back.
The Meaning
So, what is “What is Love?” really about? At its core, the song is about the pain of unrequited love. Haddaway is grappling with a difficult question – what is love? – and using his own painful experiences to try to find an answer.
The repetition of “don’t hurt me” throughout the song highlights the vulnerability that comes with loving someone who may not feel the same way. Haddaway is pleading with his beloved not to cause him any more pain, but at the same time, he can’t help but keep coming back to the question of what love really is.
The song’s popularity can perhaps be attributed to the fact that almost everyone can relate to the pain of unrequited love. Haddaway’s lyrics are simple but powerful, and his emotions are laid bare for all to see.
The Music Video
The music video for “What is Love?” is just as iconic as the song itself. It features Haddaway and his band performing the song while wearing colorful suits and dancing wildly. The video also features clips from the 1990 film “Night at the Roxbury” and became a cultural touchstone in its own right.
The music video reinforces the idea that “What is Love?” is a fun, upbeat dance track, but it also adds a layer of complexity to the song. The juxtaposition of the energetic dance moves with the poignant lyrics suggests that while the song may be a party anthem, it is also a reflection on the universal experience of seeking love and connection with others.
The Legacy of “What is Love?”
Twenty-eight years after its release, “What is Love?” is still a beloved song that continues to inspire new generations. It has been covered by countless artists and featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials.
Beyond its pop culture legacy, however, the song has had a profound impact on people around the world who have struggled with the pain of unrequited love. Haddaway’s simple but heartfelt lyrics captured something essential about the human experience, and the song remains a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and vulnerability in our lives.
Conclusion
“What is Love?” may be an infectious dance track, but its lyrics reveal a deeper truth about the human experience. Haddaway’s exploration of what love is and why it can be so painful is both relatable and poignant, and his vulnerability has resonated with millions of people around the world.
Whether you love the song for its danceable beat or for its emotional content, there’s no denying that “What is Love?” is a timeless classic that will continue to captivate and inspire for generations to come.
FAQ
What is the meaning of What Is Love song?
“What is Love” is a popular song released in 1993 by the Eurodance artist Haddaway. The song features a catchy beat and incredibly infectious chorus that has led to its continued popularity in the decades since its release. At its core, the song is a classic example of a love song, with lyrics that explore the nature of romantic love and what it means to be in love.
Like many love songs, “What is Love” is built around the idea of unrequited love. The lyrics express the desire to know what love is, and whether it is something that can be experienced by everyone or just by some lucky few. The song’s chorus in particular is a perfect encapsulation of the longing and uncertainty that often accompanies romantic love: “What is love? Baby, don’t hurt me. Don’t hurt me no more.”
One of the things that makes “What is Love” so effective as a love song is its ability to capture the feelings of falling in love. The song’s pulsing beat and soaring melody create an atmosphere that feels both euphoric and uncertain, just like the early days of a romance. In this way, the song taps into a universal experience that virtually everyone can relate to: the thrill and excitement of falling in love with someone new.
“What is Love” is a classic example of a love song that has stood the test of time. Its infectious chorus and memorable melody have made it an enduring favorite for romantic couples around the world, while its lyrics explore some of the most fundamental questions about the nature of love itself. By tapping into the deep emotional currents that drive our romantic relationships, Haddaway has created a song that will continue to resonate with listeners for decades to come.
What is the number one most romantic song?
The title of the most romantic song is highly subjective and can vary from person to person based on their personal preferences and experiences. However, according to Pandora, the music streaming platform, the number one most romantic song is “Unchained Melody” by the Righteous Brothers.
The song was originally written for a 1955 movie, “Unchained,” but became popular in 1965 when the Righteous Brothers released their cover version. “Unchained Melody” has since become an enduring classic and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
According to Pandora, “Unchained Melody” was chosen as the number one most romantic song based on the lyrics, production, and music evoking “the positive force of this unquestionable love.” The song’s lyrics speak of a love that endures even when two people are apart, and its soaring music and powerful vocals perfectly capture the emotion and intensity of that love.
One reason why “Unchained Melody” continues to be so popular is its ability to evoke feelings of love and romance in listeners of all ages and backgrounds. Its timeless quality has made it a favorite at weddings and other romantic occasions, and its presence in popular culture – including its use in the hit movie “Ghost” – has only added to its appeal.
In short, while the title of the most romantic song may be up for debate, “Unchained Melody” by the Righteous Brothers is a song that continues to stand the test of time and resonates with listeners around the world.