A Power Ballad That Soared, A Testament to Unwavering Devotion
“High Enough”, the soaring power ballad by the supergroup Damn Yankees, is a heartfelt declaration of unwavering love and the lengths one will go to maintain it, a sentiment that resonated profoundly with listeners in the early 90s.
Ah, the early 90s. Hair was big, guitars were loud, and power ballads reigned supreme. In the midst of this sonic landscape, Damn Yankees, a supergroup composed of rock veterans Tommy Shaw of Styx, Jack Blades of Night Ranger, Ted Nugent, and drummer Michael Cartellone, unleashed their self-titled debut album. And within that collection of rock anthems and fiery guitar solos, one song stood out, a testament to the enduring power of melody and emotion: “High Enough”.
Released as the album’s second single, “High Enough” climbed to number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1991, cementing its place as a quintessential power ballad of the era. It was a time when the radio waves were filled with songs that spoke of love, loss, and the yearning for connection, and this track captured that spirit perfectly. The song was written by Jack Blades, Tommy Shaw, and Randy Sharp, and it’s a testament to their combined songwriting prowess that it has endured as a classic.
The story behind “High Enough” is one of simple, yet profound, emotional honesty. Jack Blades has often spoken of the song’s genesis, explaining that it was born from a desire to express the unwavering devotion he felt in his own relationships. It’s a song that speaks to the idea that love, at its core, is about making sacrifices and going the extra mile for the person you care about. The lyrics, with their heartfelt declarations and soaring melodies, paint a picture of a love that is both passionate and enduring.
The meaning of “High Enough” is clear: it’s a song about the lengths one will go to for love. The lyrics speak of a willingness to climb mountains, cross oceans, and endure any hardship to be with the one you love. It’s a universal theme, one that resonates with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s power lies in its sincerity, a quality that is often lost in the more cynical and ironic music of today. The lush production, featuring Tommy Shaw’s emotive vocals and Jack Blades’ harmonies, creates a sonic tapestry that is both powerful and moving.
Beyond its chart success and emotional resonance, “High Enough” also served as a testament to the power of collaboration. The coming together of these seasoned musicians, each with their own distinct style and background, resulted in a song that was greater than the sum of its parts. Damn Yankees represented a moment in rock history where veteran musicians could come together and create something truly special. The song’s music video, featuring the band performing against a backdrop of sweeping landscapes, further enhanced the song’s epic and romantic feel. It was a visual representation of the song’s core message: love is a journey, and it’s a journey worth taking.
For those of us who remember the early 90s, “High Enough” is more than just a song. It’s a memory, a snapshot of a time when music was bold, emotional, and unapologetically romantic. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of change and uncertainty, the power of love remains a constant, a force that can lift us up and carry us through any storm. It’s a song that, decades later, still has the power to touch the heart and stir the soul.