The 1980s was an era of unforgettable music, and one song that truly stands out from that time is Take My Breath Away by Berlin. This iconic track became a symbol of the 80s synth-pop sound and continues to captivate listeners today.
Berlin, an American new wave band formed in 1978, released Take My Breath Away as part of their 1986 album Count Three & Pray. The song was written by the Italian composer Giorgio Moroder and Tom Whitlock, and it quickly became the band’s biggest hit. Thanks to the unique sound of the synthesizers and Terri Nunn’s hypnotic voice, the song perfectly captured the feeling of love and longing.
The song became famous when it was featured as the love theme in the 1986 film Top Gun. Maverick, played by Tom Cruise, is seen riding a motorcycle through the streets with Kelly McGillis’s character, Charlie, by his side. The two share exceptional moment as they cruise through the night, with the wind in their hair and the excitement of their budding romance in the air. Their connection deepens as they bond over shared experiences, with the motorcycle ride symbolizing both freedom and a growing emotional intimacy between them. This unforgettable scene of the couple riding together, with Take My Breath Away playing in the background, has become one of the most iconic moments in 80s cinema.
The music video for Take My Breath Away combines clips from Top Gun with footage of Berlin’s lead singer, Terri Nunn, walking between aircraft parts in a windswept aircraft graveyard at night, located at the Mojave Air and Space Port in California. This setting echoes the romantic and dramatic atmosphere of the film.
The 1980s were marked by major global East-West tensions and growing concerns over nuclear weapons. During such uncertain times, the lyrics of Take My Breath Away offered a sense of comfort, reminding listeners of the power of love and human connection.
The song’s emotional power and timeless appeal continue to make it a favourite for music fans of all ages. The lyrics tell the story of two lovers swept up in the intensity of their feelings for each other, with their emotions taking centre stage. As the song progresses, the lovers become more courageous and unafraid, culminating in the iconic line, ‘Take my breath away’.
Upon its release, Take My Breath Away became a global success, topping the charts in the US, UK, the Netherlands, Canada, and beyond. It was awarded the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1987, as well as a Golden Globe in the same year.
Lyrics
Watching every motion in my foolish lover’s game
On this endless ocean, finally lovers know no shame
Turning and returning to some secret place inside
Watching in slow motion as you turn around and say
Take my breath away
Watching I keep waiting, still anticipating love
Never hesitating to become the fated ones
Turning and returning to some secret place to hide
Watching in slow motion as you turn to me and say
Take my breath away
Through the hourglass, I saw you, in time you slipped away
When the mirror crashed, I called you, and turned to hear you say
If only for today, I am unafraid
Take my breath away
Take my breath away
Watching every motion in this foolish lover’s game
Haunted by the notion, somewhere there’s a love in flames
Turning and returning to some secret place inside
Watching in slow motion as you turn my way and say
Take my breath away
Take my breath away