The Heartfelt Desperation in Air Supply’s “All Out of Love”
Released in 1980, “All Out of Love” by the British/Australian soft rock duo Air Supply remains an enduring classic, capturing the poignant essence of love and loss. This beautifully composed piece is part of their fifth studio album, Lost in Love. Written by Graham Russell and Clive Davis, the song’s lyrics vividly depict the raw emotional state of a man deeply regretting a mistake that led to the separation from the love of his life. It’s a testament to the complexity of human relationships and the deep desire to make amends when one realizes their profound loss.
The song achieved significant success, particularly in the United States, where it soared to number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, just narrowly missing the top spot due to the massive hits “Upside Down” by Diana Ross and “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen. It also reached number five on the Adult Contemporary chart, showcasing its broad appeal. Across the Atlantic, “All Out of Love” managed to secure the 11th spot on the UK Singles Chart, making it their only top 40 hit in the UK. Its universal appeal was further cemented when it was placed 92nd on VH1’s list of the “100 Greatest Love Songs” in 2003, solidifying its status as a timeless love anthem.
The song’s creation has an interesting backstory. Originally, the chorus was penned as “I’m all out of love, I want to arrest you.” However, Clive Davis believed this line might confuse American audiences, suggesting a change to “I’m all out of love, I’m so lost without you,” a modification that earned him a songwriting credit. This change undoubtedly added to the song’s relatable emotional depth and resonance.
One of the most remarkable features of “All Out of Love” is Russell Hitchcock’s powerful vocal performance. Known for his soaring voice, Hitchcock holds the final note for an impressive 16.2 seconds. At the time, this set a record for the longest-held note by a male pop singer until 1983, when Sheriff’s lead vocalist Freddy Curci surpassed it by holding the final note of “When I’m with You” for 19.4 seconds.
Critical reception of the song was overwhelmingly positive. Cash Box praised the song for its “dynamite chorus and swelling crescendo,” ensuring its hit status. Record World echoed this sentiment, calling it a “formula-perfect follow-up” to their previous hit “Lost in Love.”
“All Out of Love” is more than just a song; it’s an emotional journey that resonates with anyone who has experienced the agony of losing someone dear and the desperate hope of reconciliation. Its heartfelt lyrics, combined with Hitchcock’s emotive delivery, continue to touch listeners’ hearts decades after its release, making it a cherished gem in the landscape of soft rock love ballads.
Music Legend