“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
In the early ’90s, as I navigated the complexities of young love, Bryan Adams’ “Please Forgive Me” became a poignant soundtrack to those emotions. Its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody resonated deeply, encapsulating the earnestness of first love and the longing for forgiveness.
About The Composition
- Title: Please Forgive Me
- Composer: Bryan Adams and Robert John “Mutt” Lange
- Release Date: October 15, 1993
- Album: So Far So Good (Greatest Hits Compilation)
- Genre: Soft Rock
Background
“Please Forgive Me” was crafted as the sole new track for Bryan Adams’ 1993 greatest hits album, So Far So Good. Co-written and produced with Robert John “Mutt” Lange, the song emerged during recording sessions in France. Adams noted that it was among the first songs where he embraced modulation, adding a dynamic shift to its composition. Upon its release, the song achieved significant success, reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart and number seven on the US Billboard Hot 100. It also topped charts in Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Ireland, Norway, and Portugal, further cementing Adams’ global appeal.
Musical Style
The song is characterized by its soft rock balladry, featuring a gentle yet powerful arrangement. The instrumentation includes prominent piano accompaniments by David Paich and Robbie Buchanan, complemented by Shane Fontayne’s guitar work and Mickey Curry’s drumming. The structure incorporates a modulation, a technique that shifts the key to elevate emotional intensity, which Adams had seldom used before. This modulation, combined with Adams’ raspy vocals, enhances the song’s heartfelt plea, creating a resonant and memorable listening experience.
Lyrics
The lyrics delve into themes of enduring love and the quest for forgiveness. Adams expresses a love that feels as fresh as the first night together, acknowledging his deepening affection and the fear of overwhelming his partner. The recurring plea, “Please forgive me, I can’t stop loving you,” underscores the song’s central message of seeking pardon for an all-consuming love. This narrative resonates with listeners who have experienced the complexities of profound emotional connections.
Performance History
The accompanying music video, directed by Andrew Catlin, was filmed in a recording studio and features Adams alongside his band and a dog belonging to the studio owner. The video received substantial airplay, contributing to the song’s popularity. Over time, “Please Forgive Me” has become a staple in Adams’ live performances, often eliciting strong audience reactions due to its emotive delivery and universal themes.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its commercial success, “Please Forgive Me” has influenced the soft rock genre, exemplifying the power of sincere lyrical content paired with compelling melodies. Its themes have found relevance in various media, including film and television, where it underscores narratives of love and reconciliation. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its continued presence on radio playlists and streaming platforms, appealing to both original fans and new listeners.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “Please Forgive Me” remains a testament to Bryan Adams’ songwriting prowess and emotional expressiveness. Its exploration of love’s enduring nature continues to resonate, making it a timeless piece that bridges generational gaps. The song’s legacy is further solidified by its inclusion in Adams’ live repertoire and its influence on aspiring musicians within the soft rock genre.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “Please Forgive Me,” I’m reminded of its profound impact during my formative years. Its sincere lyrics and soulful melody encapsulate the essence of enduring love and the human desire for forgiveness. For those yet to experience this classic, I recommend listening to the remastered version available on major streaming platforms. Additionally, the official music video offers a nostalgic glimpse into the song’s original presentation.
Video
Lyrics
It still feels like our first night together
Feels like the first kiss
It’s getting better baby
No one can better this
Still holding on
You’re still the one
First time our eyes met
Same feeling I get
Only feels much stronger
I want to love you longer
Do you still turn the fire on?
So if you’re feeling lonely, don’t
You’re the only one I’ll ever want
I only want to make it good
So if I love you, a little more than I should
Please forgive me, I know not what I do
Please forgive me, I can’t stop loving you
Don’t deny me, this pain I’m going through
Please forgive me, if I need you like I do
Please believe me, every word I say is true
Please forgive me, I can’t stop loving you
Still feels like our best times are together
Feels like the first touch
We’re still getting closer baby
Can’t get closer enough
Still holding on
You’re still number one
I remember the smell of your skin
I remember everything
I remember all your moves
I remember you yeah
I remember the nights, you know I still do
So if you’re feeling lonely, don’t
You’re the only one I’ll ever want
I only want to make it good
So if I love you a little more than I should
Please forgive me, I know not what I do
Please forgive me, I can’t stop loving you
Don’t deny me, this pain I’m going through
Please forgive me, if I need you like I do
Please believe me, every word I say is true
Please forgive me, I can’t stop loving you
The one thing I’m sure of
Is the way we make love
The one thing I depend on
Is for us to stay strong
With every word and every breath I’m praying
That’s why I’m saying,
Please forgive me, I know not what I do
Please forgive me, I can’t stop loving you
Don’t deny me, this pain I’m going through
Please forgive me, if I need you like I do
Babe believe it, every word I say is true
Please forgive me, if I can’t stop loving you
No, believe me, I don’t know what I do
Please forgive me, I can’t stop loving you
I can’t stop, loving you