Roxette’s “It Must Have Been Love” isn’t just an 80s power ballad; for many, it’s the 80s power ballad. This iconic track, sung by the late Marie Fredriksson, who sadly passed away in 2019, resonates deeply as perhaps the ultimate breakup song. Its global reach and enduring appeal cement its place in music history, and a key element of its power lies within the poignant “must have been love lyrics.”
When Roxette performed this signature song live, it was always the emotional high point of the night. Even as Fredriksson faced health challenges, her performance was imbued with raw passion, pouring every ounce of emotion into this global hit. The chorus, a powerful and universal cry of “It must have been love, but it’s over now,” is instantly recognizable and cathartically singable, whether in a packed arena or a solitary shower.
Marie Fredriksson and Per Gessle captivating audiences in 2015.
From Swedish Christmas Single to Global Phenomenon
Surprisingly, this ubiquitous radio staple, a song embedded in the soundtrack of countless lives for over three decades, began its journey as a Swedish-only Christmas single in 1987. Initially titled “Christmas for the Broken Hearted,” EMI Germany commissioned Roxette’s songwriter Per Gessle to create an “intelligent Christmas single.” However, they hesitated to release it internationally in its original form. While it achieved respectable success in Sweden, reaching number 4, it was its inclusion in the 1990 blockbuster romantic comedy “Pretty Woman,” starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, that ignited its global explosion.
“It Must Have Been Love” soared up charts worldwide, spending 14 weeks in the UK Top 40 and peaking at number 3. In the US, it propelled the “Pretty Woman” soundtrack to triple platinum status. By the time Gessle offered the song for the film, Roxette had already secured two US number ones, setting the stage for even greater success. Crucially, for its international release, the song underwent subtle but impactful edits. The intro and outro were sharpened, and the line “It’s a hard Christmas day” was transformed into the more universally relatable “It’s a hard winter’s day,” broadening its appeal beyond the festive season. To date, “It Must Have Been Love” has amassed an astounding five million radio plays and generated half a billion dollars in revenue, a testament to its enduring popularity and the power of its “must have been love lyrics.”
The Musical DNA of a Power Ballad
Per Gessle, drawing inspiration from his early musical influences like The Animals and The Hollies, masterfully crafted “It Must Have Been Love.” He blended the emotional resonance of epic pop with elements of Swedish folk music, creating a sound that was both familiar and uniquely Roxette. Despite their global success, Roxette, with their signature 80s aesthetic of big hair, PVC, and synths, were often initially dismissed as mere pop fluff. Even comparisons to similar Australian duo Savage Garden were met with denials of Roxette’s influence. Gessle, however, remained unfazed, drawing a parallel to ABBA’s initial critical reception in Sweden, suggesting a longer-term appreciation for genuine pop craftsmanship.
Decoding the Heartbreak: “Must Have Been Love Lyrics” and Their Meaning
The true staying power of “It Must Have Been Love” transcends catchy melodies and powerful vocals; it lies in its lyrical depth and emotional honesty. Following a classic Motown formula, the song perfectly marries musical ecstasy with lyrical agony. It’s a raw and relatable exploration of lost love, regret, and the lingering feeling that perhaps more could have been done to save the relationship. The brutally understated line, “It must have been good / but I lost it somehow,” encapsulates the gallows humor of profound devastation. It hints at confusion and helplessness, suggesting that the complexities of love may ultimately be beyond comprehension, a sentiment echoed in the poignant “must have been love lyrics.”
While the song is steeped in wistful heartbreak, it also carries an undercurrent of resilience and the necessity to move forward. Fredriksson’s genius lies in delivering the title line, “It must have been love, but it’s over now,” with stoic resignation rather than overwrought emotion. This nuanced delivery conveys acceptance of her fate, even as the jarring key change in the middle eight throws the listener, and perhaps the singer, back into the throes of pain and raw emotion. “It Must Have Been Love” encapsulates these complex, conflicting feelings within its perfect four minutes and fifteen seconds. Even though Marie Fredriksson is no longer with us, Roxette’s signature anthem, with its unforgettable “must have been love lyrics,” ensures that her voice and the song’s emotional power will never truly fade.
An Enduring Anthem: Covers and Legacy
Over time, any initial skepticism or jokes about Roxette’s image have given way to a profound respect for their musical artistry. The sheer number and diversity of artists who have covered “It Must Have Been Love” – from reality TV winners like Megan McKenna to Dame Shirley Bassey – speak volumes about its enduring appeal and musical richness. The song even fueled Roxette’s triumphant 2010 comeback tour, sparked by Fredriksson’s unexpected and moving return to performing after years of illness. Her voice, even then, had the power to move audiences to tears, proving that the magic of “It Must Have Been Love,” rooted in its powerful melody and heart-wrenching “must have been love lyrics,” is truly timeless.
