About the song
Bryan Adams and Tina Turner’s electrifying duet “It’s Only Love” is a powerful rock anthem that highlights the chemistry between two iconic artists. Released in 1985 as part of Bryan Adams’ multi-platinum album “Reckless”, the song showcases the gritty vocal prowess of both Adams and Turner. Written by Bryan Adams and his longtime collaborator Jim Vallance, “It’s Only Love” became one of the standout tracks on the album, which produced multiple hits, solidifying Adams’ place in the rock scene of the 1980s.
The song’s raw energy comes from its infectious guitar riffs and the intense back-and-forth vocal delivery between Adams and Turner. Turner, who was at the height of her comeback following her success with the album “Private Dancer”, brought her signature raspy voice to the track, blending perfectly with Adams’ rough-edged rock vocals. Together, they created a sound that resonated with fans of both artists, earning the song widespread radio play.
Although “It’s Only Love” was never released as a standalone single in the U.S., it peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and helped “Reckless” reach its commercial heights. The song was particularly notable for its live performances. Adams and Turner’s live duet during Turner’s 1985 Private Dancer Tour was so well-received that it was later included in Adams’ 1988 live album “Live! Live! Live!”. The performance further highlighted the undeniable chemistry between the two artists and became one of the defining moments of their collaboration.
Critically, the song received praise for its rock-driven arrangement and the powerhouse vocal performances. “It’s Only Love” went on to earn a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1986, cementing its place as a fan-favorite. The track’s success also helped expand both artists’ fan bases, with Turner’s R&B audience embracing Adams’ rock sound, and Adams’ rock followers appreciating Turner’s soulful intensity.
The song’s message is simple yet impactful: love, no matter how difficult or heart-wrenching, is still just love, and shouldn’t be taken too seriously. This relatable sentiment, combined with the song’s high-energy rock sound, makes it a timeless piece in the discographies of both Bryan Adams and Tina Turner.
For fans of classic rock and 1980s anthems, “It’s Only Love” continues to be a staple, appreciated for its authenticity and the rare, magical combination of two legendary voices. Whether heard on the radio, at a concert, or revisited on albums, this song remains an enduring testament to the era’s best musical collaborations.