About the song
Bryan Adams and Tina Turner – It’s Only Love: A Rock & Roll Powerhouse Duet
When you combine two of the most electrifying voices in rock history, the result is bound to be something unforgettable. Bryan Adams and Tina Turner proved this with their 1985 hit, It’s Only Love, a song that radiates raw energy, passion, and the kind of grit that defines true rock ‘n’ roll. Featured on Adams’ breakthrough album Reckless, this powerhouse duet remains one of the most explosive collaborations of the era, showcasing both artists at their peak.
From the very first notes, It’s Only Love grabs the listener with its driving guitar riffs and unrelenting rhythm. Adams, with his signature raspy voice, sets the stage with a gritty, blues-infused delivery, while Turner—ever the vocal powerhouse—brings her unmistakable fire into the mix. The moment their voices collide, the song transforms into an electrifying anthem of resilience in love and life.
Lyrically, the song is a straightforward yet impactful take on the struggles and triumphs of love. The message is simple: heartbreak may feel devastating, but in the end, “it’s only love”—and life moves on. The lyrics, though direct, carry an undeniable emotional weight, made even more powerful by the passion in both singers’ performances. Their voices blend seamlessly, with Turner’s raw, soulful grit complementing Adams’ rugged, rock-driven delivery.
One of the song’s most remarkable aspects is its instrumentation. The guitar work, featuring the signature sound of Keith Scott, is both sharp and driving, providing the perfect backdrop for the intense vocal exchange between Bryan Adams and Tina Turner. The energy never lets up, making it one of those tracks that begs to be played at full volume.
While Reckless produced several hits, including Summer of ‘69 and Run to You, It’s Only Love stands out due to its sheer vocal power and dynamic chemistry between two legendary artists. The song wasn’t just a highlight on the album—it also became a show-stopping moment when performed live. Perhaps the most famous rendition came in 1985 when Turner invited Adams to join her on stage during her Private Dancer Tour. Their electrifying performance that night cemented the song’s status as one of the greatest rock duets ever recorded.
Over the years, It’s Only Love has continued to be a fan favorite, a song that perfectly encapsulates the energy and spirit of 1980s rock. It’s a reminder of a time when music was all about raw emotion, powerful voices, and pure, unfiltered passion. Bryan Adams and Tina Turner delivered a track that wasn’t just about love—it was about the sheer thrill of rock ‘n’ roll at its finest.