1987 Power Ballad Named No. 1 Hit Song Became a Timeless Anthem
1987 Power Ballad Named No. 1 Hit Song Became a Timeless Anthem
Lila ParksMon, April 13, 2026 at 4:08 AM UTC
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In 1987, Starship released an unforgettable love anthem that quickly became one of the biggest hits of the era.
Their song "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in April of 1987, and the Official Charts records show it also topped the U.K. chart, where it spent four weeks at No. 1. This place reflected the important role it held in 80s rock, receiving incredibly widespread attention and love.
Written by Diane Warren and Albert Hammond, the song paired the voices of Grace Slick and Mickey Thomas for one of Starship's most recognizable releases. Its catchy chorus, high-quality production and romantic lyrics helped it stand out at a time when power ballads were dominating pop and rock radio.
Thomas, the band's lead singer, reflected on what made the era of their greatest successes unique. In an interview with Cryptic Rock, he said, "In the '80s, as far as the charts were concerned, you would hear everything. You might turn on the radio and hear Whitney Houston, then Whitesnake, then Michael Jackson, then Starship. It was all over the map and everybody loved every kind of music."
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Beyond radio success, "Nothing's Gonna Stop us Now" also earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song for its role in Mannequin, establishing a legacy in film as well as music.
That level of recognition has strengthened the song's legacy, which has endured for decades. It is now ranked among Ultimate Classic Rock's "50 Greatest Power Ballads in Rock History."
Today, "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now" still carries the emotional weight that defines a classic power ballad. Its unmistakable sound and film presence have helped it remain a favorite years after its release, solidifying its place as a timeless anthem.
Related: 1979 No. 1 Hit Ranked Among Best 'Soft Rock Songs' of All Time Became a Timeless Anthem
This story was originally published by Parade on Apr 13, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
