The Secret to Creating an Unforgettable Honeymoon: What Does It Take by Honeymoon Suite

Imagine standing on a picturesque beach, hand in hand with your love, watching the sun set on the horizon as Honeymoon Suite’s iconic song, “What Does It Take”, plays in the background. This Canadian rock band has been serenading couples around the world for over three decades with their heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies. But have you ever wondered what inspired this timeless ballad? What does it take to create a song that stands the test of time and continues to capture the hearts of romantics everywhere? In this article, we will dive into the story behind “What Does It Take” by Honeymoon Suite and discover the secrets behind its enduring success. So let’s turn up the music and embark on a journey through love, music, and everlasting romance.

What Does It Take By Honeymoon Suite: A Classic 80s Power Ballad

Honeymoon Suite emerged onto the music scene in the early 1980s and quickly made a name for themselves with their high-energy performances and catchy songs. However, it wasn’t until the release of their album “The Big Prize” in 1986 that they reached mainstream success with their hit single “What Does It Take.” This classic power ballad captured the hearts of listeners with its emotional lyrics, powerful vocals, and heart-wrenching guitar riffs. In this article, we will delve deeper into the meaning of “What Does It Take” by Honeymoon Suite and explore why it has become a timeless anthem loved by many.

The beginnings of “What Does It Take” can be traced back to lead singer Johnnie Dee, who wrote the song while visiting his hometown of Niagara Falls. Inspired by his own experiences with love and relationships, Dee poured his heart into creating this powerful ballad. The result was a song that resonated with listeners on a deep level.

The Meaning Behind “What Does It Take”

At its core, “What Does It Take” is a love song about longing for someone who may seem out of reach. The lyrics describe the feelings of wanting to have someone’s love and affection but not knowing what it takes to make them stay. This uncertainty and vulnerability are reflected in lines such as “I’ve got my heart in my hand / You’ve got your head in your hat” which perfectly captures the push and pull of a relationship.

Additionally, the song also touches on themes of sacrifice and determination. Throughout the lyrics, there is a sense that the narrator is willing to do whatever it takes to win over their love interest. Lines like “I’ll make any sacrifice / To tie you down,” show that they are willing to go above and beyond to make the relationship work.

But perhaps the most impactful aspect of the song is the chorus, with its repetitive lyrics of “What does it take? / To win your love for me.” This simple yet powerful question conveys the intensity and desperation of the narrator’s love while also allowing for listeners to insert their own personal experiences and emotions into the song. It’s this universal appeal that has made “What Does It Take” stand the test of time.

The Music Video

In addition to the emotionally charged lyrics, “What Does It Take” also made an impact with its music video. Shot in iconic Niagara Falls, the video features stunning shots of both the waterfall and the band performing on a high-rise rooftop. The use of imagery representing both power and vulnerability perfectly complements the message of the song.

The video also captures the energy and passion of lead singer Johnnie Dee, whose intense performance adds even more depth to an already emotional song. The rest of Honeymoon Suite brings their own energy and charisma, making for a visually captivating experience.

The Legacy of “What Does It Take”

It’s been over three decades since “What Does It Take” was released, but its impact is still felt today. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, further solidifying its status as a timeless classic. In addition, it has been featured in popular media such as films and TV shows, introducing it to new generations of listeners.

But beyond its enduring popularity, “What Does It Take” holds a special place in many hearts as an anthem for love and perseverance. Its relatable lyrics and unforgettable melody have allowed it to stand out in a crowded music industry and continue to be a beloved favorite among fans.

“What Does It Take” by Honeymoon Suite is more than just a power ballad from the 80s. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experience of love and all its complexities. With its emotional lyrics, captivating music video, and enduring legacy, “What Does It Take” will continue to be a beloved classic for years to come. So the next time this timeless anthem comes on the radio, turn up the volume, and let yourself get lost in the powerful emotions of “What Does It Take.”

Background information on the band Honeymoon Suite

Honeymoon Suite is a Canadian rock band that formed in 1981 in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The band consists of vocalist Johnnie Dee, guitarist Derry Grehan, keyboardist Peter Nunn, bassist Gary Lalonde, and drummer Dave Betts. They gained popularity in their home country with their debut album “Honeymoon Suite” which was released in 1984.

The band’s name was inspired by the honeymoon suite they stayed in while recording their first demos. They were signed by Warner Music Canada and released their self-titled debut album which had four hit singles including “New Girl Now” and “Love Changes Everything”. Their second album “The Big Prize” was even more successful, reaching gold status in Canada and earning them a Juno Award for Album of the Year.

Over the years, Honeymoon Suite has gone through some lineup changes but has continued to create music and tour. They have released a total of nine studio albums, with their latest being “Hands Up” which came out in 2019. The band is known for their catchy hooks, melodic harmonies and powerful live performances which have kept them relevant in the North American rock scene for over three decades.

The meaning behind the song “What Does It Take?”

“What Does It Take?” is one of Honeymoon Suite’s most popular songs from their third album “Racing After Midnight”. Released in 1988, the song peaked at number seven on the Canadian charts and also found success in the United Kingdom and United States.

The song is about a man who is struggling to understand what it takes to make his relationship work. He wonders if he needs to change who he is or if he just needs more time. The lyrics are filled with doubt and uncertainty as he questions whether his love for his partner is enough.

The chorus of the song features the iconic line “What does it take to win your love for me” which has become a memorable and often quoted line in Honeymoon Suite’s discography. The band manages to capture the emotions of not knowing what is needed to make a relationship work and the frustration that comes with it.

The song’s impact on Honeymoon Suite’s career

“What Does It Take?” was one of Honeymoon Suite’s biggest hits and helped solidify their status as one of Canada’s top rock bands. The album “Racing After Midnight” went on to achieve gold certification in Canada, earning them another Juno Award nomination for Album of the Year.

The success of “What Does It Take?” also helped the band gain popularity in other parts of the world. They had previously toured with popular acts such as Heart and Billy Idol, but this song was their breakthrough into mainstream radio play in both the U.S. and U.K. It continues to be one of their most recognized and beloved songs, often being played at live concerts and on classic rock radio stations.

Furthermore, “What Does It Take?” showcases Honeymoon Suite’s musical range as it is a ballad compared to their usually more upbeat rock songs. This was a testament to the band’s versatility and ability to create music that resonates with a wide audience.

Influence on Canadian rock music

Honeymoon Suite is considered one of Canada’s pioneering rock bands, alongside other acts such as Rush, April Wine, and Loverboy. Their success paved the way for other Canadian bands to break into international markets and showcase their talent on a global scale.

“What Does It Take?” is an example of how Honeymoon Suite contributed to shaping the Canadian rock music scene at the time. The song remains a staple in classic rock playlists across Canada and has inspired many other Canadian artists to explore similar musical styles.

Moreover, Honeymoon Suite’s longevity in the music industry has made them a role model for aspiring Canadian rock bands. They have shown that with hard work, dedication, and pure musical talent, Canadian bands can achieve success beyond their home country.

Honeymoon Suite’s impact on the rock genre

Honeymoon Suite’s music can be described as a blend of melodic rock with a dash of pop. Their signature sound is marked by heavy guitar riffs, catchy choruses, and strong vocals from lead singer Johnnie Dee. This unique fusion has allowed them to stand out in the highly competitive rock genre.

“What Does It Take?” showcases the band’s ability to create a song with a memorable melody while still maintaining their distinctive sound. This has influenced many other rock acts to experiment with different elements in their music and strive for originality in their compositions.

In addition, Honeymoon Suite’s longevity in the industry is indicative of their staying power and relevance. They have managed to adapt to changes in the music scene while still staying true to their sound. This consistency has made them one of the most respected bands in Canadian music history and has inspired countless musicians to pursue careers in rock music.

Q: What is the song “What Does It Take” by Honeymoon Suite about?
A: The song is about the struggles of a relationship and what it takes to make it work.

Q: When was “What Does It Take” released?
A: The song was released in 1985 as part of Honeymoon Suite’s album “The Big Prize.”

Q: Who wrote “What Does It Take” by Honeymoon Suite?
A: The song was written by Johnnie Dee, the lead singer of Honeymoon Suite.

Q: Is “What Does It Take” considered a popular wedding song?
A: While the lyrics may seem fitting for a honeymoon or wedding, the overall message of the song is not considered to be a typical choice for a wedding song.

Q: Is there a music video for “What Does It Take” by Honeymoon Suite?
A: Yes, there is a music video for the song that features the band performing on an outdoor stage and in various locations around Toronto, Canada.

Q: Who produced “What Does It Take” by Honeymoon Suite?
A: The song was produced by Tom Treumuth, who also produced many other songs for Honeymoon Suite.

In conclusion, Honeymoon Suite’s hit song “What Does It Take” delves into the complexity of a relationship and the sacrifices and efforts required to make it last. Through powerful lyrics and a catchy melody, the song showcases the band’s musical talent and their ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level.

The song highlights important themes such as communication, compromise, and commitment in a relationship. It reminds us that love is not always easy, but with dedication and determination, it can endure even through the toughest times.

Moreover, “What Does It Take” also serves as a reflection of society’s expectations for relationships and how they often fall short of reality. The pressure to conform to societal standards can lead couples to overlook their own needs and desires, causing tension in the relationship.

Overall, Honeymoon Suite’s timeless hit continues to resonate with audiences today because of its relatable message about love and relationships. It teaches us that true love requires effort and understanding from both parties involved. Despite its challenges, when two people are willing to put in the work, the rewards of a strong and lasting bond are immeasurable.

Lastly, the song leaves us with the important reminder that love is not just a feeling but also an action. It takes communication, compromise, commitment