Bryan Adams: The Power Ballad Specialist
Canadian rocker Bryan Adams released his debut album in 1980, but it took a few attempts before his music truly resonated with a global audience—and four albums before he became a superstar.
His first real breakthrough came with album three, Cuts Like a Knife (1983). Peaking at #6 in the U.S., it likely helped attract legendary engineer Bob Clearmountain to co-produce and mix the follow-up, Reckless (1984).
On Reckless, we find Run To You, Heaven, and Bryan’s signature song Summer of ’69—a tune that’s since become a staple for cover bands the world over.
After three years of riding high on that success, Bryan reunited with Clearmountain for Into The Fire (1987). Despite high expectations, no major hits emerged and sales stalled under two million—a flop compared to Reckless’s twelve million.
After regrouping for four years, Bryan returned with a vengeance in 1991, releasing Waking Up The Neighbours. This album gave us Can’t Stop This Thing We Started and the massive hit (Everything I Do) I Do It For You.
Featured in the Kevin Costner blockbuster Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Everything I Do shattered chart records—spending sixteen weeks at #1 in the U.K. and topping charts in 19 countries. Combined sales in the U.K. and U.S. alone reached six million singles.
Two years after this enormous success, a Greatest Hits compilation followed—So Far, So Good. It featured one new track, Please Forgive Me.
The Power Ballads, the Blockbusters, and the Big Fade
In 1993, Bryan Adams released All For Love, another power ballad for a big movie—The Three Musketeers. Joined by Sting and Rod Stewart, the track became yet another #1 for Bryan. In Canada, it even knocked his previous single, Please Forgive Me, off the top spot.
Adams’ next studio album, 18 Til I Die, arrived in 1996. Alongside the title track, it featured two more notable tunes: The Only Thing That Looks Good On Me Is You and Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman.
The latter appeared in yet another anticipated blockbuster—this time with Johnny Depp in Don Juan Demarco. While the film and song did well, neither matched the scale of success seen with Robin Hood or The Three Musketeers.
In 1997 came the obligatory Unplugged album—an acoustic live take on his Greatest Hits. A bit late to the party, as most bands released theirs in the early ’90s, but still, Bryan’s version did reasonably well.
His next studio album, On A Day Like Today, would be his last major success. Here we find When You’re Gone, a duet with Mel C. Originally written for Sheryl Crow, who ghosted him, Bryan happened to bump into Mel C in a lift—sealing what became his final globally successful single.
After On A Day Like Today, Bryan continued releasing soundtracks, studio, and live albums, but no big tunes emerged. The Canadian rocker’s spotlight began to fade.
Still, he’ll always be remembered for his power ballads—and, of course, for penning one of the most obvious cover band tunes of all time, Summer of ’69.
Bryan Adams: Continuing to Shine with New Music and Unforgettable Live Performances
Bryan Adams’ recent works highlight his ongoing relevance in the music industry, with his 2022 album So Happy It Hurts earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance. This marked his first nomination in over two decades, reinforcing his continued influence in rock music. The album’s upbeat tracks and nostalgic sound showcase his enduring ability to connect with audiences, blending classic rock vibes with fresh energy.
In addition to new material, Adams has revisited his iconic catalogue through re-recorded versions of his classic hits. Classic and Classic Pt. II present a fresh take on some of his most beloved tracks, allowing both long-time fans and new listeners to experience his music in a different light. These albums further cement his legacy as a versatile artist who continues to evolve while staying true to his roots.
Adams’ live performances remain a central aspect of his career. He continues to tour the globe, maintaining a strong presence on the stage. Notably, in January 2025, he delivered a captivating concert in Valencia, Spain, demonstrating his remarkable stage presence and the enduring connection he has with his audience. His ability to captivate crowds, even after decades in the business, speaks volumes about his timeless appeal.
Looking ahead, Bryan Adams’ upcoming intimate acoustic show in Inverness, Scotland, as part of his celebration for his new album Roll with the Punches, promises to be another memorable event. This performance, like his others, will likely showcase his ability to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of live music.
Bryan Adams Tunes | Related Pages
(Everything I Do) I Do It For You | Chords + TAB
Learn how to play (Everything I Do) I Do It For You by Bryan Adams using chords, lyrics, chord analysis, a chord chart, and the original recording.
| Db (Dbadd4) | Dbsus2 |
Look into my eyes you will see…
Check out the full TAB lesson here: (Everything I Do) I Do It For You (Bryan Adams) Guitar Lesson with TAB.
Summer Of ’69 | Chords + TAB
You can learn how to play Summer Of ’69 by Bryan Adams using chords, lyrics, chord analysis, a chord chart, and the original recording.
| D5 | D5 | A5 | A5 |
I got my first real six-string, bought it at the five and dime…
Check out the full TAB lesson here: Summer Of ’69 (Bryan Adams) Guitar Lesson with TAB.
Bryan Adams on the web
