Frankie Goes To Hollywood – The Power Of Love

Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s “The Power Of Love” is one of the most dramatic and emotionally expansive recordings of the 1980s. Released in 1984 as the third single from Welcome To The Pleasuredome, it was written by Holly Johnson, Peter Gill, Mark O’Toole and Brian Nash, and produced by Trevor Horn.

Following the provocative sexuality of “Relax” and the political intensity of “Two Tribes”, the song takes a markedly different direction, presenting love as a powerful, almost spiritual force. Johnson’s lyrics combine romantic devotion with religious and supernatural imagery, describing love as something capable of protecting, cleansing and overcoming darkness.

The recording began as a slower, more stripped-back song, including an early version performed during a BBC John Peel session. For the finished recording, Horn increased the tempo and brought in a lush string arrangement by Anne Dudley, helping transform the song into a sweeping, cinematic ballad.

Its association with Christmas came largely from the striking promotional imagery rather than the lyrics themselves. The video, directed by Godley & Creme, depicts the Nativity, while the single artwork uses traditional Christian imagery. This helped establish the song as a seasonal favourite despite there being no specific Christmas reference in the words.

Holly Johnson’s passionate vocal performance sits at the heart of the recording, giving “The Power Of Love” a sense of grandeur and sincerity that remains deeply affecting.

It peaked at No. 01 in the UK Singles Chart on 8th December 1984.