One Night in the Summer of...

So, I have to say that I've always been a fan of songs by Bryan Adams for many reasons.  From an instrumental standpoint, his songs are terrific, and for a music geek like me, there is nothing more spectacular than the huge modulation at the bridge in "Summer of '69."  That is amazing.  Probably the best modulation I've ever heard in a rock song.  In layman's terms, it's a key change.  Anyway, I read about the song, and there are so many discussions about the meaning of the song and the "numerical reference."  So, I am going to say that whatever the listener wants to think is alright with me.  Some people think it is about the year, some think it references a car, and the rest of us, well...yeah.  Let's leave it at that.  Awesome song, giggly title, but all in all a terrific tune that makes you want to crank up the radio and sing along.  Touching lyrics, too, especially, "and when you held my hand...I knew that it was now or never..."  Very sweet and endearing to hear that in a rock song.

Meanwhile, one of his lesser-known songs from the same album is "One Night Love Affair."  It definitely has a Bryan Adams signature sound, but it can seem a little obscure.  The lyrics are probably not something that people would relate to with the same vigor as "Summer of '69" (with the whole reminiscing thing).  Anyway, I think this song is a good one, and I give props to anyone who puts "love affair" in the title--or the lyrics.  It is kind of unique and something from days gone by.  Certainly wouldn't read about a "love affair" today, but back in the golden days of Hollywood, it would seem perfect.  I think it works really well with the song, too.  It fits the rhythmic frame perfectly.  Low and behold, I went along for 28 years thinking the wrong lyrics in my mind -- again!  I always thought the words were "one night love affair...tryin' to make life we don't care..."  Seemed fitting for a song about a one night stand -- kind of.  But, I found out the lyrics are "tryin' to make like we don't care."  OKAY!  That makes much more sense.  Whew.  Yeah, they try to shrug off the feelings they are hiding.  Could be a billion things going on.  Maybe the feelings are that they are each trying to shrug off a broken heart.  Maybe they are falling in love.  Whatever the case, well, I am just glad I found out the real lyrics :)