Nobody REALIZES This All Time 80s SINGALONG #1 HIT is About VAMPIRE SEX? | Professor of Rock

Today’s song… what can I say? There’s just nothing else like it. I mean it’s dark, it’s moody, it’s theatrical rock. Listening to it takes you on a heart-pounding sonic journey deep into the shadows and then back into the light. Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler written and produced by the great Jim Steinman is epic in size and scope. The 1983 #1 hit is punctuated by a raspy, larger-than-life vocal performance from Bonnie Tyler who lost her voice some years before and had take throat surgery not knowing if she’d ever sing again.. she also had a huge hit that typecast her as a soft country rock balladeer… then she got a chance at singing a 7-minute song about Vampire love that would go onto become one of the biggest #1 hits ever…but it pissed Jim Steinman’s other constant collaborator Meatloaf off who felt the song was his for the taking… It’s a compelling story of a song that still moves the needle coming up next.
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#80smusic #classicrock #80s
Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. it you remember when you had to rewind or fast forward for several minutes on your walkman to try and hear the next song instead of clicking a button that takes a millisecond… subscribe below right now. You’ll dig this channel of nostalgic interviews and song stories. We also have a Patreon you'll want to check out, where you’ll get full interviews and special features.
So it’s time for another edition of our series The New Standards. This show takes an in-depth look into songs that transcend genre, decade, and fads - songs that are monumental touchstones in our culture and society. On previous episodes, we have covered Careless Whisper by George Michael slash Wham, Time After Time by Cyndi Lauper, and Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey.
But today we are breaking down a big-time hit from 1983. A song that not only ruled the charts but captured the souls of audiences everywhere… It's the #1 hit, Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler from her fifth studio album Faster Than the Speed of Night.
Bonnie Tyler, born Gaynor Hopkins in South Wales, grew up listening to the music of Janis Joplin and Tina Turner. At the age of 17, she answered a newspaper ad for backup singers at a local club and began singing almost daily in Welsh clubs and pubs from then on. From the get-go, Tyler had a naturally bluesy and raspy voice. However, her six-night-a-week regiment as a club singer led to her developing nodules on her vocal cords. So in 1976, she underwent throat surgery. It was a success. And after a four-month recovery, her voice came back stronger and more like Rod Stewart than ever.

[@ProfessorofRock]

POLL; What is your pick for the greatest female vocal performance of the rock era?

[@catherine6653]

Grace Slicks amazing intro and vocals on 'Somebody To Love'. (Jefferson Airplane)

[@killrmillr]

Ann Wilson - Crazy On You

[@markallen2984]

Janis Joplin "Me & Bobbie McGee"

[@RBS_]

....Lady Ann doin' "Stairway To Heaven" seems to be a good pick, dun'tchathink!? ...ha-HAAA!!

[@hbofbyu1]

Barracuda - Ann Wilson. Has to be up there among the best.

[@TheREALJosephTurner]

Although I was firmly entrenched in "hair bands" in the 80's, I did own this album and would play this song often when my buddies weren't around. One day, one of my friends came over unannounced and my mom let him in. He walked in on me jamming the song while belting out the lyrics into a broom handle. Without missing a beat, using a flashlight as a microphone, he seamlessly busted in with the backup vocals. Good times!

[@tarynmiller-bell347]

I love those moments, when you think how "weird" or "different" your words or actions must be only to have the other person totally make you feel sooo normal.

[@royfr8136]

Bs

[@phyllisjohnson1019]

Good Buddy 👍🏻

[@notmyname3883]

Then you did the Brokeback thing? And everyone clapped?

[@libertybelle247]

YAAAASSSS!!!🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@markcatanzaro9699]

I'm 53- but some of your videos take me right back to being 15, coming home after school, dropping my backpack and turning on the stereo and plopping down in my bedroom- I remember the layout of my bedroom, the posters on my wall, the smell of dinner simmering away in the kitchen... Adam, literally a quick trip back in time- when life was so much easier but it felt so much harder... you have a great gift and I know you work hard at it... I hope you feel appreciated 🙂

[@kariqualters5908]

Wow! I couldn't have said that better!!

[@markcatanzaro9699]

@@kariqualters5908 🙂 i talk pretty good 🙃

[@kariqualters5908]

And you remember pretty well!! Lol The only difference is I have a couple years on you. I've said about the same thing about this channel though.

[@namelia4439]

I’m 52 and you nailed it w every word!!

[@paulredinger5830]

I’m 59 I remember doing the same thing brother! The 80’s what a time for music and to grow up! Miss that time.

[@briceweed5325]

I was shopping at Target a few years ago when this song came on over the audio system. I started singing along quietly. As the song went on I looked around and pretty much EVERYONE in the store was singing it! It was a strange moment, but one small example of how awesome and timeless this song is. It was almost like everyone was under a spell…😱

[@John-ue9pt]

That’s so cool

[@riproar11]

I was at Amoeba Records on Haight Street in San Francisco and Hall & Oates's "Private Eyes" came on. As the song progressed, everyone in the store eventually joined into clapping "Private Eyes"..."CLAP"..."They're watching you." "CLAP" "CLAP".

[@shellyann8818]

That gave me happy chill bums!! What an awesome experience ❤

[@trevorgrier4511]

Certain songs do that!! Bohemian Rhapsody, Sweet Caroline, Don't Stop Believing... when something is great there is no shame in "cheating" on your preferred genre. Just let the music take you higher!!!

[@foleynj86]

@@trevorgrier4511 Don't forget In The Air Tonight with the drums.

[@NorthernKitty]

"Once upon a time there was light in my life, but now there's only love in the dark." Yep, vampire song.

[@marnyfrancesca2526]

Yes, I get it now!

[@byatschaer2199]

@NorthernKitty Are YOU really THAT stupid to agree to THIS being a vampire song

[@ramilopez6921]

This was my wife's and I song when we first started going out together. I enlisted in the Army, and while I was away, I heard this song on the radio. I wrote her and told her that I thought about us every time I heard it. She heard the song and from that moment on it became our song. Now, every time we hear the song, we remember the pain of being apart, and we kiss. We've been married now for 36 years.

[@ellemmenn2930]

Ok that’s freaking adorable

[@loribeggs1147]

🥰

[@karenwillis3816]

AWESOME! Marriage isn’t taken seriously anymore, people change spouses like they change clothes.😢it’s too bad.

[@kareyannefoster]

God bless you and your wife. Thank you for your service..

[@ramilopez6921]

@@kareyannefoster Thank you so much

[@spoonskill7080]

My teenage sweetheart turned 16 when this song came out. We slow danced in her front room, with the lights off, to this song, playing it over and over, until her mom came downstairs and separated us. I'll have that wonderful memory until the day I die. Thank you Bonnie and Jim for a most amazing moment in my life. God, I've never told that story to anyone...

[@limack4055]

I have a similar memory...Every time I hear this song, it takes me back to that time and place. It was the best time of my life and one of my best memories in my 56 years.

[@eeltenaj19]

Thank you for sharing it. ❤

[@donnam.9251]

My 25-ish daughter and I were sitting in a local biker dive bar on a week-night, debating where to go next because none of our friends had shown up, and the jam of local bands was cancelled due to weather issues. Everyone was lost in their own conversations, but suddenly, Total Eclipse of The Heart came on the jukebox. Before the first verse was finished, every person was singing. Bartenders, bikers, bouncers, strays that wandered in looking for a quick beer, and my daughter and I, all singing our hearts out. Arms were wrapped around total strangers, people swaying to the music. As the last notes faded away, everyone seemed to come out of the spell that Bonnie had woven, and they resumed their conversations as if Total Eclipse had never swept them away. One of my favorite memories.

[@bar-jean]

I love Total Eclipse, but never knew it was vampire-themed.

[@karenkelly-dillenbeck9209]

Coolest story EvEr !!!!

[@Victoriana883]

I love your story! Thanks for sharing.

[@tubeonline629]

Wow! You should write novels, or choreograph musicals

[@TheOriginalWB]

Sounds like a music video.

[@williamirvine7071]

A perfect example as to why the songs of the 80s will never die

[@SuziQ.]

@DarlinJacq , “You’ll never grow old, (Michael) and you’ll never die, but you must feed”.

[@moriahfeatherrae8265]

Amen!

[@desertrose128]

That's right, don't stop believing, lol

[@juliecook6057]

GEN X...we ROCK !!

[@evelynzlon9492]

No pun intended? This is the second time I misinterpreted a song's lyrics but I STILL correctly concluded that it was about a vampire. The other song is The One I Love by REM.

[@LWolf12]

Jim Steinman needs a video all his own, if you haven't done one on him already, his songs where legendary no matter who song them.

[@GoodieWhiteHat]

I agree. I taped his When Rock and Roll Dreams off the radio and to me that is his song. He did some soaring songs. No one does a crescendo like him

[@davidboop663]

​@GoodieWhiteHat Meatloaf did a cover of it years later, and I love both versions!

[@pandaspirit6734]

When I heard about a gravelly voiced female singer with a hit song in the early 80's about vampire love , the first thing to pop into my mind was " Betty Davis was a vampire?! " 😂

[@mariofeathers4194]

Once bitten The lost boys .....

[@dlm4708]

no, but her eyes would lead me to believe it...

[@Acemechanicalservices]

Kim Karnes is who you’re thinking of.

[@mathilde1974]

I was thinking self control with Laura Brannigan

[@cfrandre8319]

“Bette Davis was a vampire?!” LOL She’d have been a riot as a vampire...😂😂😂😂😂

[@riggler2]

Jim Steinman gave us so many iconic songs, yet is a name that is not as well known as it probably should be as one of the greatest songwriters modern music.

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's so true!

[@Code.Name.V]

I 100% agree.

[@williamashton9235]

Jim Steinman was an incredible songwriter, but he didn't produce "Bat Out of Hell." Todd Rundgren did, and he's still making money on royalties!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Say his name louder for the ppl in the back! 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@Bahama3ay]

Jim Steinman was an absolute juggernaut of a songwriter. He wrote so many fantastic songs. I have always loved that way over the top production and rock opera feel to them that instantly made them recognisable as a JS song. So sadly missed.

[@terryoquinn8199]

Thank you Bonnie Tyler for some of the most heart wrenching songs ever ! I’ll never forget Total Eclipse , and thanks to Jim for writing it . Killer song , just amazing .

[@mapatterson173]

Holy moly. I’m in my 60s, and I can’t believe how many times I’ve heard this song and never took in the vampire aspect. It was an amazing song, and Tyler did it best.

[@GrandmaCathy]

Same.

[@PathogenPrincess]

Totally agree!!!

[@majamintoft5821]

@Margaret Patterson ditto😊

[@harpert579]

Same here. The song always creeped me out so I never could get in to it but I never realized it was about vampires.

[@KissMeStarlight]

Never knew this either 😮

[@jeanproctor3663]

How the heck can this song be 40 years old this year? It feels like only yesterday I heard it for the first time. It's beautiful, unnerving and totally iconic and nobody will ever sing it like Bonnie in my opinion (yes, I'm old enough to remember it being released and seeing the video on "Top Of The Pops", which I was an avid fan of when I was in Comprehensive school). Even though I loved Meatloaf too I'm actually so glad that it was Bonnie Tyler that sang this song - it just wouldn't have meant the same if Meatloaf did it and it wouldn't have anywhere near the same feeling and intent.

[@darlenenistor6759]

Right!! It seems like about 15 yrs ago to my ears. But when I wrote that, I'm thinking, well that's crazy cuz ur kids r older then that. Lol. But I feel like I'm 15 again walking around the fair n hearing that song and was so excited cuz it was my fav. N I stood by the stand.

[@SuperGlen100]

I would love to have heard Meatloaf's take on this song, I don't remember where I heard it, or who covered it, but I've heard a metal cover of "Total Eclipse of the Heart", and all I remember thinking was, "Eh" not terrible, not spectacular, it may have even just been somebody horsing around at band practice, I cannot remember, I've got a total eclipse of my brain

[@extremeknucklehead3637]

It was in fact only yesterday that you heard this song for the first time Jean. One of the yesterdays anyways 15yo YOU

[@theemmjay5130]

Things of quality have no fear of time.

[@katjamison]

I'm 76 and the song still gives me chills. Bonnie's voice was the heart of the song; passion and power, loneliness and desire.

[@theduchessofkitty4107]

But seriously, her voice is a force of nature. She has aged beautifully, and can still sing just as beautifully.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

No doubt.

[@Mikethompson303]

​@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Pero el hombre natural no acepta las cosas del Espíritu de Dios, porque para él son necedad; y no las puede entender, porque se disciernen espiritualmente.

[@yogsothoth8389]

I’m 52, and I feel freakin’ ancient. However, I first heard “Total Eclipse of the Heart” when I was in 7th grade (1983-84) and it never gets old. It still gives me chills to this day. Junior High/Middle School sucked for me, but the music I loved saved me from the loathsomeness and bullshit. Songs like “Total Eclipse of the Heart” took me into another world that was awesome and exciting, and safe from bullies and obnoxious teachers. “Holding Out for a Hero” is also incredible.

[@MarianneR-qv7yu]

I can relate, to how hard jr high was.

[@ahill4642]

I almost could have written this and I’m 53. 😉 High school can be hell. Music is truly a saviour, I agree. Such a pure escape. Stress relief. Joy!

[@ramblinrose8]

ancient?

[@redwoodrebelgirl3010]

I'm so sorry for what you & others here have experienced. 💔 (I got some bullying, but mostly felt like an alienated, misunderstood, outsider, outcast, & weirdo. Which I probably was. But, people were downright ugly about it. I hated Junior High. It was ugly, cruel, vicious, & mean. High school was just about as ugly. And, my life outside of school was worse.) I wish you all (everyone who was bullied & traumatized by school & the awful things that happened _[& still happen]_ there) comfort, healing, strength, support, relief, release, freedom, Light, Love, Hope, Peace, & Joy. 💗 May you find relief & release from awful scars & memories. May we all. God hold each of you close, bless you hard, & bring you great & unbounded Joy. And, yes, _music made _*_all_*_ the difference._ It was a savior for me, & for most people I know it Thank God for music!!!♥️

[@redwoodrebelgirl3010]

By the way-- _AIN'T NONE OF US _*_ANCIENT, YO!_* We are just in middle age. *NOT* _OLD AGE!_ I was near y'all's age when this song came out. It's tied to some pretty intense memories! (Though I was just getting into the Stones, which are my real musical obsession!) _I ain't ready to throw in the towel, _*_just yet!_* 50's are _far, far_ from ancient. (Though, my back, & hip, & knees, & these other hitches in my get-along suggest otherwise. 😂)

[@Spinner0295]

To this day, this 52 year old dude still gets goosebumps hearing the opening notes and you can’t help but sing along to it. Never knew until today that the song was about Vampires, but now the song makes so much more sense.

[@volairn70]

@@daddy2g also same, same age, same goosebumps

[@charliem.7492]

It's NOT! The guy is a liar!

[@Zizzyyzz]

​@@charliem.7492What's it about?

[@little78lucky]

@@Zizzyyzz It depends on whose version you want to believe. The writer of the song goes with the vampire and used it in his musical Tanz der Vampire., Bonnie however said she never understood that interpretation and that to her it is just a love song.

[@beachlife4346]

​@@little78luckyonly the writer of the song knows what the song really means. Others can put their own meaning to the music but that doesn't change its original meaning.

[@Bahama3ay]

Jim Steinman was an absolute juggernaut of a songwriter. He wrote so many fantastic songs. I have always loved that way over the top production and rock opera feel to them that instantly made them recognisable as a JS song. So sadly missed.

[@lillynichols9884]

He had a style of his own, and always recognisable - •without• them all sounding exactly the same. I remember being thrown the first time I heard "Making Love Out Of Nothing At All", because since when did Air Supply have big drums? That real Steinman big music sound - but, it was listening to the lyrics that I realised it was definitely a Steinman song, his word play was brilliant, and •fun•!

[@lfd_eng9219]

Bonnie Tyler's voice and her enthusiasm made this song come to life. Meatloaf would have done it proud...but Bonnie just killed it. It truly was meant for her amazing voice. Thank you Jim Steinman for building out this classic!!! Another great story behind the song Professor! You are the man with knowledge!

[@NelsonStJames]

Holding Out For a Hero is a fantastic song that is really right up there with Total Eclipse, but man the 80's had so many great female vocalists it's unreal. Lauran Branigan, Cindy Lauper, Debbie Harry, Pat Benatar, Cher, the list just doesn't stop. I don't think we've ever had a decade with as many powerful vocalist, or as many memorable songs.

[@supme7558]

Madonna

[@alexdickinson5085]

Depends on what ya listen to and if you listen to what the radio stations shove down your throat. There are so many talented female vocalists in rock and metal but you dont hear em bc its not mainstream in the usa

[@hippiebits2071]

Tina Turner was also amazing in the 80's as was Whitney Houston. You're right the list doesn't stop.

[@TomasFunes-rt8rd]

Ah, no. Someone trying to sound like a baby while reducing the music to wishy-washy anyone-can-do-it fluff doesn't make the grade compared to someone like Pat Benatar. @@supme7558

[@pursue513]

All strong male voices masquerading as female

[@kingsxkids]

I wonder if Bonnie ever got a chance to sing love hurts? I’d like to hear that 🙂

[@Barbarossa19]

I can remember playing this song over and over as I saw my high school love engaged to a friend. I thought the tears would never stop. Two years later I was obliged to be the best man at their wedding. Years on we both reconnected after children and divorces. We've been 23 years married now. The song still makes me cry but in love rather than loneliness.

[@cdavid8139]

Saw Bonnie Tyler sing this live in a tiny bar in New York. She flew in from the UK, sang one song, and left. Just amazing opportunity

[@robertneblett4477]

That song has such an intensity. No matter what your taste in music, her haunting voice and the melody just make you sing it out loud.

[@dont_follow5777]

I'm partial to thrash metal, but I love this song. It has everything.

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's so true.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It makes me feel stronger as well.

[@virginiaquiroga6631]

Sorry but never liked this song. Too long and also didnt like Bonnie's voice. Same with the singer of Betty Davis eyes. Can't remember her name.

[@robertneblett4477]

@@virginiaquiroga6631 Kim Carnes. Loved her raspy voice too😁

[@Vincent_no]

Fun Fact : like you said, this song was a vampire song. What is amazing however is that it became the core/heart/foundation of a Vampire Musical, entirely composed by Steinman ! And wildly popular in Europe !

[@mooseyourbody]

I was looking for this comment! The musical "Dance of the vampires" actually contains a version of "Objects in the Rear View Mirror May Appear Closer" that was also a popular song for Meat loaf. In the musical it's the same music just different lyrics.

[@lisaeberhart]

The Broadway version was horrible. My friend sold us on the German version. we went to see it on broadway and it was just bad. Everything had to be a campy joke. I guess they thought they had to make it funny for the US. It lasted a little over a month.

[@paulbirnbaum]

I saw "Dance of the Vampires" on Broadway with Michael Crawford. I mean, between him, and Jim Steinman music, what could go wrong? The answer: EVERYTHING! It was a terrible show, not the least of was the awful re-rewrite of the lyric of "Total Eclipse..." to make it again about vampires.

[@NightCrystal]

Was looking for this comment..lol. Any one who wants to watch it, please check out the German version Tanz der Vampire.

[@arinerm1331]

RIP Jim Steinman, in my opinion absolutely the best songwriter of my lifetime. Not only did he write my favorite Meatloaf hit, he also wrote Total Eclipse for Bonnie Tyler and It's All Coming Back to Me Now for Celine Dion. When you hear an epic, powerful song with moments of quiet solitude, it's possible that it was written and composed by Jim Steinman, who also wrote many Broadway show tunes.

[@MrRicksStudio]

He also wrote Left in the Dark for Barbra Streisand.

[@arinerm1331]

@@MrRicksStudio I've never heard it, but that is likely more to do with my aversion to Barbra Streisand than anything to do with the quality of the song. Steinman also wrote Making Love Out of Nothing at All, performed by Air Supply. It's the only one of their songs that didn't sound like all the others.

[@sventer198]

He wrote songs that give you the tingles. Epic ballads!

[@cubemissy]

Oh, I didn’t know he died. 😢 I remember my first time hearing the Celine Dion song, and my heart yelled, “There’s Jim!”

[@flynow5614]

Bat number one.

[@lavender_coffee]

I’m so grateful to have had an 80s childhood and all this great music.

[@Dancestar1981]

I’m an 80s baby too

[@mikepalmer1971]

My teenage years were in the 80’s and I am grateful for that.

[@shellykeltz203]

Me too! It was the best!!!

[@MissUnderstood_Mom]

Me too! It was the best!!

[@AusDenBergen]

Amen to that. Today is painful.

[@GenXSpawnPoint]

This brought back memories of me sitting by my tape deck stereo, listening to the radio with my hand hovering over the "record" button so that I could capture this song. I was 13 and didn't have money to buy the album or single, so the radio was all I had, and I would absolutely RAGE when the DJs would talk over the end of the song, their voices maring those last plaintive notes of "turn around bright eyes, turn around," with just the piano and the sound of the wind. I can't remember how many times I actually yelled at my stereo, "Shut UP, the song isn't over yet! ARGHHH!" Good times. :D

[@phins2dright]

“We’re living in a powder keg and giving off sparks”. What a great lyric!

[@scottmcmullen4499]

In 1983, I was 16 years old. I was just starting to emerge from a shell of shyness, and I fell in love with Bonnie Tyler and A Total Eclipse of the Heart. At the time I thought she was a beacon of beauty and class. I couldn't get enough of this song. On the weekends at the teen dance hall, I was lifted above my shyness and able to ask girls to dance with me. Thanks for covering this song. You always bring back amazing memories with your stories. Keep up the good work.

[@michellejoy6752]

I was 19. In some ways it seems like just the other day, in other ways it seems like 100 years.

[@angelageier1574]

I was just born. But these were the first songs I recognize.

[@redwoodrebelgirl3010]

I was not yet a teenager, but it struck me hard . It's an awesome song, with deep memories attached.

[@thegteam4349]

Great comment Scott, I can relate 👍🏼

[@notsoseriousmoonlight]

I remember listening to Casey Kasem's American Top 40 when Total Eclipse hit #1. It truly deserved it. 😊

[@juliecook6057]

It was only a few years ago I found out it was " Casey Kasem " ...and NOT... " Casey Casey " !! 😂😂😂

[@Tammyperry1]

RIP Casey Kasem....He was good at giving back round information and had a soothing voice.

[@hoibsh21]

The fact that Bonnie recovered from vocal cord surgery is an accomplishment itself and then to have this song, WOW -- icing on the cake!!

[@derekp308]

It wasn’t your average love song. Back in the day it was one of the few ballads I actually liked. It was so unique. It wasn’t sappy, it showed a lot of emotion. Bonnie was perfect for this, I can’t picture Meat Loaf making this better than what it already was.

[@throbbinwoodofcoxley6830]

It would’ve been just as good. He didn’t have the rasp but his reverb would’ve been amazing too.

[@dianamiller3307]

​@H Griggs that would have been epic

[@Stormbrise]

It came on a jukebox in MA and I was having breakfast with a friend about 10 am. I started to sing along,and he told me to stop because no one should sing over Bonnie Tyler. It hurt my feelings,I am now married to a man who believes that raising of one singing in a untrained voice is an act of joy and happiness and one listening to keep their comments gentle. This by my husband was posted before I even met him.

[@beenaplumber8379]

Jim Steinman was a genius. A true maestro. Every composition of his has so many layers of special sauce. (I'm actually a theatrical composer.) Every chord change, every leading tone he'd set up, he'd knock it down with unexpected intensity. Just once before I die I wish I could compose something that had the quality he put into every composition. My favorite rock composer. RIP Maestro.

[@thelevelrider64]

In my mind, this will always remain the the song I shared with my girlfriend in my senior year of high school. It highlighted the timing a lot of critical decisions and changes in my life, and in many ways, the emergence of the person I would go on through life as. I can't hear it today without being taken back to that time, and recalling the conflicting forces and emotions that would shape my future. It wasn't all good... nor was it all bad, but I can't listen to this song without a certain recollection of the heartbreak and tumultuous times that it marked in my life.

[@eightiesmusic1984]

Telling that a thoughtful and articulate comment received no response. I for one appreciate it. Thanks for sharing.

[@throbbinwoodofcoxley6830]

Rider, it was cool to hear your perspective on the song. I was four when it came out, and grew up singing it in the car on road trips. I never understood the melancholy until I was older. The song that was for me what total eclipse for you was, and I’m not proud of it, Marilyn Manson’s Tourniquet. Oddly enough, it conveys similar emotions, but delivered with a jaded cynicism.

[@MisstressMourtisha]

Aww that reminds me of My dying bride.

[@Mom1Kids5]

Meatloaf, with his vocal range, could have easily sung this song perfectly, but Bonnie Tyler hit this song completely out of the ballpark. Her voice, her pitch, is one of a kind.💜

[@ProfessorofRock]

Nobody touches Bonnie on this one!

[@wendyladybug355laurie4]

@@ProfessorofRock I Really LOVE Watching Your Podcast, You Really Sound Like Casey Kasem !!!!I ALWAYS Have To Have Music Cranked Up Thru out The House Whether I Am Cleaning,Creating Crafts, Walking, Shopping,ETC......I Haven't Watched This One Yet, But Hearing About Meatloaf Wanting This Song,How Amazing A Duet Between Meatloaf & Bonnie Tyler Of This Song Would Explode!!!!Thank You For What You Do, I TELL EVERYONE To Watch You, Take Care 👼👼💝💝💃💃🌹🌹🥰🥰🎧🎤🎸🥁🎺🎷🎰🎰🩰🛼🎹🪇💽💿📀🎼🎶

[@patriley6445]

I agree. Meatloaf could very well have done this song with intensity. But the intensity Bonnie Tyler had trump's Meatloaf. There's something about Bonnie's haunting intensity that Meatloaf just doesn't quite have.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Bonnie KILLED IT.

[@pipkingdom]

Saw Meatloaf live using loops in tour in Toronto. He was winded so….

[@billnagel1617]

I had never realized that Jim Steinman wrote this song, but as soon as he said it I immediately realized it couldn’t have been written by anyone else. Such an amazing songwriter.

[@incognitoatunknown2702]

I didn't think this song could get any better, especially after all these years. But now knowing that it's about vampires in love, the lyrics click into place for me and add another dimension to Total Eclipse of the Heart alll these years later. Thanks for letting me appreciate this song in a new light and all over again.

[@belladonna131]

This is TOO WEIRD! I just looked up "Bonnie Tyler" three days ago! Her songs are iconic because she made them iconic with her unmistakable voice. NO ONE HAS A VOICE LIKE HER. It doesn't fit all songs, but the ones that it does, it's meant to be like a great marriage. I'm so happy that you covered Bonnie Tyler. You have such great information that not very many people are privy to and we appreciate it very much. Thank you so much❣🌹🌸💕❤✌

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks Bella.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

She’s 71 years old right now and looks beautiful.

[@moonyfruit]

I'm 33, and I get half of my music taste from my mom, this song included! The chills that Bonnie gives... insane. Goes down my arms. Too good!

[@CT-uv8os]

Vampires. Late 1960s. Something tells me Jim Steinman was a Dark Shadows fan as well...... Sorry for Meatloaf but Bonnie Tyler was born for it! Thank you!

[@carlwalker7560]

Absolutely love Jim Steinman songs, most are instantly recognizable by the longer than normal lyrical lines. Also Bonnie's unique (almost, Rod Stewart's rasp is similar). The combination of Bonnie's voice and Steinman's songwriting make this a true classic!

[@jeanproctor3663]

Jim Steinman is a pure musical magician isn't he?

[@twatinahatsmith7428]

Bonnie had surgery on some nodules on her vocal cords. That why she is raspy.

[@jennifermosley1243]

My Dad loved this song. Every time I hear it I think of him. RIP Dad 10-10-44 to 5-25-03. If it wasn't for him I don't think music would've been in our home like it was and the reason I love it today.

[@erikkunkle9574]

This is one of those songs that when it "comes on", everyone sings it, naturally picking their parts. Whether they sound could or not, they put everything they have into singing it and finish light-headed. It's a great bonding experiance.

[@ProfessorofRock]

That's exactly right!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I turn around and sing it with bright eyes! 😊

[@evelyngill5134]

I don’t get it how is this about vampires 💁

[@robster7316]

A lot of insight into Bonnie's vocal influences and songwriter preferences. That rasp is such a gift that few singers possess and Total Eclipse of the Heart is yet another one of those timeless 80s ballads that never seems to grow old. Thanks, Adam!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks Robster! Have a happy monday!

[@thomthom6268]

It wont. Grow old that is.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

A lot of singers have great raspy voices that they used to sell their songs, such as Rod Stewart, Cyndi Lauper, and Bonnie.

[@Shawnabin]

Interesting thing is that the rasp isn't really hers. It came from having the surgery. So it really was a gift.

[@Nyet-Zdyes]

@@ProfessorofRock Thanks for the reminder of Nikki French's version of Total Eclipse... it's (for me) a rare case of enjoying a second/alternate version

[@denniszeiter2468]

The first time I heard this song, it sent chills through me, and it still does today. All of Jim Steinman's work seems so epic. I love Meatloaf's work, but I don't think this song would have been as big if he'd done it. I still think it would have been good, just like no one can do Bat out of Hell like Meatloaf could.

[@shortyc4247]

YES AND MORE YES. Anything Jim Steinman wrote is like a mini novella or Opera.

[@graytart]

This song came out a few days after I turned 23. It became my song right away and remains a favourite now I am over 60.

[@EjWalker007]

My mom loved this song, but I'm not sure she seen it was about vampires. She was born in 1950. She passed to the next realm when she was 69 and I murmured another one of her favorite songs. I said 'I hope you dance, Mom.'

[@marywarren8357]

My mom was born in 52 and we lost her at 65. She too loved those songs!! I can’t hear them and a few others without hearing her sing them. I’m sorry for your loss. I do believe we will see them again someday.🕊

[@cherylthompson3882]

I played “I hope you dance” at my mom’s funeral because she was always up for anything until the end of her life. She died in 2005 but I still miss her every day.

[@EjWalker007]

@@cherylthompson3882 I'd like to think that my mom is dancing with my dad. To some degree I know that we'll be together again and not even time can destroy love.

[@crittersintheyard3993]

I was a teenager in the 80's, the music was awesome! Bonnie's voice absolutely made the song. I love Meatloaf but the song wouldn't have been the same. Jim Steinman had vision and really pushed the boundaries with song writing.

[@HuntingViolets]

Would love to have heard a duet with Bonnie Tyler and Meat Loaf. There’s no doubt in my mind that he could sing it, no matter who it was written for.

[@GodOfWarPlayer-qv6ye]

They did both appear on the track "A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste", but I wouldn't call that a duet.

[@NelsonStJames]

I was thinking the exact same thing.

[@Anhedonis]

It would be like a bat out of hell.

[@mikewallace119]

Such a good song... Growing up in the 80s was such a good time for music... Todays music just doesn't do it... My daughter just turned 18 and she loves the songs from the 80s... Every time I play a song from my music collection she says holy shit who is that dad? Totally proud of her... Straight A student studying to be a doctor and hates todays music... Couldn't ask for more...

[@sventer198]

Good job dad

[@kareyannefoster]

Excellent. If you want to hear a great band from today's music, check out Greta Van Fleet. You and your daughter will not be disappointed. God bless.

[@mikewallace119]

@@kareyannefoster Yes they are good.

[@garygreen2146]

So on point, I am a 51 year old New Zealander. This song, even today, it is almost mandatory to start singing along to it if you're traveling in a car . It has a power that still resonates worldwide . Truly an exceptional song

[@tonytbd6232]

I remember hearing Bonnie Tyler for the first time - 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' - on the radio in my aunt's car (she was a couple years older than me) - and believe waited for it to play on the radio again so could grab a recording. Those vocals really grabbed me. I was 16 at the time - Thank you for bringing back such a fond memory.

[@lauraArual]

This song still gives me chills to this day. The song waited for Bonnie.

[@armywife521]

I love this song. I love Bonnie Tyler. Her voice is so distinctive, she gave this song something that no one else could. ❤

[@ueno1]

I would've loved a duet of Meatloaf and Bonnie Tyler doing Paradise By The Dashboard Light! So Epic!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Now, that would have been wonderful.

[@throbbinwoodofcoxley6830]

No way. Bonnie’s voice, whilst amazing, is too jaded. She couldn’t have pulled off the soft, innocent teenager character that Ellen Foley did so damn well.

[@janhill7383]

​@@throbbinwoodofcoxley6830Ellen Foley another under rated huge talent

[@janhill7383]

@@throbbinwoodofcoxley6830 Ellen Foley was my favorite on Night Court

[@TerryVogelaar]

Such an amazing song! Never knew it was about vampires, though. Jim Steinman had a thing for bizarre lyrics. One of the other songs he wrote for Bonnie Tyler is: "Loving you is a dirty job, but someone's gotta do it". Always cracks me up!

[@DropAnchor1978]

Great song with Todd Rundgren.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Haha, that song title is hilarious!

[@phillipsears6200]

Thought that was RATT

[@dbf1dware]

Jim Steinman is an absolute GOD of music writing. So many incredible moving passionate songs.

[@TemplarMedic]

Always grateful how you take me back to my childhood. I would have sworn that “Holding Out for a Hero” made it into the top 10; surprised to hear it was only 34.

[@stevenguajardo6049]

I loved the backup vocals on this song! Iconic. "Turn around bright eyes, turn around". Loved the ending.

[@stevieandthebarbies]

Bonnie Tyler is soooooooo underrated. She holds her own amongst all the great female singers of the 80s but so rarely gets acknowledgement from the music industry

[@AnnieBoBannie421]

I’ve always wondered why she didn’t have more hits. She has THE voice. I guess I don’t realize what it takes to actually make a song and release it. I gave up on new music prob 15 yrs ago 🤣 I’ll just stick with what I know and love. The ‘80s are unbeatable 🤣💋💋

[@prodigalson6166]

Nosferatu, featuring Meatloaf and Bonnie Tyler, is the greatest rock opera That Never Was. It would have truly been an icon. It will forever stump me that Jim never seamed to make that connection. ✌️🇺🇲

[@NativelyBornAmerican]

Could Meatloaf have sung it? Sure, but it would not have nearly the incredible impact as it does with Bonnie Tyler belting it out. Her voice and passion is pure GOLD!

[@kamaeq]

We will never know, but it was in the style that Meatloaf ruled. We most probably two truly top notch versions.

[@sandrabrannon1547]

The way I heard the story from an interview with Jim Steinman Meatloaf gave the song to Bonnie Tyler

[@anguswatson1470]

Brings back great memories of my childhood

[@irishmage]

By Damm this song STILL sends a shiver down my spine! No one could have done it and made it so much their own.

[@moonchaser5595]

This song is Bonnie's signature song, no other artist could have done it as well or elevated it as high.

[@dezzconnor8360]

This song was over 20 years old and I was in my 30s when I first heard the full album version, and the line, "Every now and then I know you'll never be the boy you always wanted to be" completely BROKE me, putting into words a truth I had not actually realized and bludgeoning me with it.

[@melindamcdaniel2479]

My mom has a similar voice. My twin and I often performed this song together, and I cannot hear it without experiencing powerful nostalgia and fond memories.

[@jenpink4298]

40 years later and I can remember exactly where I was the first time I heard this song. And for 40 years it has been on my all time list of favorites.❤

[@DeaconessPemberton24]

I was 10 years old, on a Thai Airlines flight to Greece with the family via Bangkok from Australia-Magical times and much better World back then..

[@hannahbotanica3311]

I've never met a person who didn't fall prey to the epic emotion of this song! And yes, I too was a kid riding in the family car belting out this tune to the best of my ability. It has to be one of the best 80s song ever! 😊

[@trynsurviven2440]

The first few notes of the piano are the loneliest notes ever played in my opinion. I remember when this song was released and like everyone else I was mesmerized by it. Awesome song then and just as awesome today.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Exactly right!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s one of the greatest piano riffs ever.

[@EmperorMegas]

This has been my favorite song for 40 years, since the first time I heard it as a child and I never knew any of this stuff. This was a great watch.

[@galaxywolf969]

I have a similar story to ou Professor. My mom divorced my abusive father in 1983 and this was her favorite song. May still be. I remember her hearing this on the radio in the car and she started to sing, my younger brother and I joined in, and by the end of the song my mom was streaming tears. She was that happy that we knew her favorite song. I was eight years old. It will be a memory I have forever. Fantastic song and thanks for bringing back some great memories.

[@yensid4294]

I remember when this song was on heavy rotation on MTV. The song is hauntingly beautiful & I'm not surprised to find out that it was originally written as part of a vampire musical considering the dramatic gothic undertones of the video. Certain songs were just made for music videos & this was definitely one of them. 👍

[@mikecarter5631]

Because of this song, it’s hard not to respond to someone telling you to turn around by singing, “Bright eyes!,” of by singing, “Every now and then…” This song is easily one of the greatest of all time. It was a classic as soon as it debuted.

[@queendriver1]

HER VOICE! The one thing I remember most in 83 was a shaky year for me; when Bonnie would come on the radio, I was briefly lost and loved every minute! Thank you, Bonnie, for sharing your voice with the world.

[@DepDawg]

Oh wow, shaky year for me too! Music kept me from a complete breakdown.

[@GWiggz]

Steinman definitely had a thing for vampires. He wrote the music for Tanz der Vampire, a vampire musical. But this song is undeniably great.

[@LicheLordofUndead]

This song is my favorite by Bonnie Tyler song, I never thought this was a Vampire song, I love the Vampire genre of movies, so it only makes sense I loved this song so much.

[@c.e.anderson558]

This tune turned me inside out it was so great. Marvelous vocal. Stirring and heartfelt.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Same here. It gives me the chills.

[@MatildaRabbit]

Something similar happened with Celine and “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now.” Loved this song, Meatloaf, and Jim Steinman’s work. He and Meatloaf made a great team. They were both so theatrical. If I had been Meatloaf, I would have wanted those songs, too.

[@paulfedorenko2301]

I'd read that "It's all coming back to me now" was meant for "Bat out of Hell II," but ended up not fitting on the album, so they let Celine Dion do it instead. Meatloaf eventually got another crack at it, as a duet with a Norwegian singer named Marion Raven. It's on "Bat out of hell III," In case you didn't know. It's a pretty good take on the song. kzbin.info/www/bejne/roCqgXuLe6arjbM

[@MatildaRabbit]

@@paulfedorenko2301 I have seen that video because I was thinking her video with the motorcycle and all looked very Meatloaf-y. :-)He was dressed like a vampire or something in his.

[@tipsformykids3116]

Love his duet version than Celine’s

[@natalie8212]

I am a vocalist who has damaged my voice due to zero training. Just hearing that she was able to continue on and create such a beautiful and unique sound gives me hope that maybe I can try again. And of course this song is epic. Thank you for this.

[@iismyalias]

Stay with it sis. You got this.

[@katmaresparkles9578]

This song was meant for her. It is why Jim took so long composing it. Because before he met her he hadn't found the right sound for it to be a true success, and take it to where he felt it needed to go.

[@marklowther3228]

I am a huge Steinman fan! I've worn out 'Bad For Good' and 'Bat out of Hell' more than a few times. Thanks for this awesome story of this mesmerizing song!

[@Code.Name.V]

Steinmann was an all time great composer and wordsmith.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Steinman made so many classics. R.I.P.

[@Bahama3ay]

Jim Steinman was an absolute juggernaut of a songwriter. He wrote so many fantastic songs. I have always loved that way over the top production and rock opera feel to them that instantly made them recognisable as a JS song. So sadly missed.

[@waynedavis294]

Well, DUH!!! I have only heard 2 other vocalists in my 60 years on this planet that can match Ms. Tyler or even exceed her range and power of the pipes! Care to guess whom those 2 would be???? Here is a hint. M. C. And M. R. Go!

[@timstamps5281]

Total Eclipse is also the centerpiece of Jim Steinman’s musical “Dance of the Vampires” which is a huge hit in Germany (Tanz Der Vampire). Meat Loaf sang part of Total Eclipse (Turn Around Bright Eyes) plus other songs from Tanz der Vampire on his last album Braver Than We Are.

[@jeradblazek677]

Brother, Casey Kasem was certainly a legend with his show American Countdown. The little tidbits we'd get of songs and the long distance requests were always something to look forward to on Sunday's. You might not be doing a countdown, but I love the deep rich backstory of the songs and bands you do, and all the great guests you get on your show to interview. You, in my opinion, will go down as a legend for the media age we live in today, that gives life back to the music I grew up with.

[@flagcoco69]

MASSIVE JIM STEINMAN FAN! I love how you do your homework on these videos and talk about more than just the singer and the charts, but also the life of the song, the writers and producers, the tours, the videos, and anything else you can think of. One item you missed is that Jim had a tendency to recycle melodies throughout his career. You caught the one how the melody for Total Eclipse was originally used in his college musical, The Dream Engine, from 1969. But he also used the song in his 1997 musical, Tanz der Vampire, which was originally produced in Germany and directed by Roman Polanski. It's evidence that Total Eclipse was always about vampire sex, where, in the original production, Count von Krolock (played by the late great Steve Barton) seduces Sarah (Cordelia Zenz). The musical rivals Andrew Lloyd Webber's Phantom of the Opera in terms of bringing to life a 19th Century horror story, but it's more gothic, more sensual, and as with anything Jim ever did, more over the top. The American version flopped because producers insisted on getting a big name, and that big name was Michael Crawford, who insisted on making it funnier (Mel Brooks' The Producers was the big thing on Broadway at the time, and Crawford insisted on putting a joke or two into every page of the script, ruining Steinman's gorgeous masterpiece). As for the song, the repeated "every now and then" in the Tyler version is replaced with "Manchmal in der Nacht" (sometimes at night), but the translation of the lyrics reflects the exact same spirit as the song did in 1983. Another fantastic video. I watch every day!

[@iseydelmar]

Thank you so much, I was going through the comment section looking for someone else to have noticed that :D also your analysis is so accurate!!!

[@kathleenevans112]

This song still weaves a spell that no other can and to date no one has sung it better than Bonnie.

[@FTGMotorsports]

80's music was incredible - you bringing this back to us in the way you do is always impressive - thank you

[@bradleyweaver4272]

It’s true the first cut is the deepest & this one cuts deep. I think I can speak for all the 9yr olds at the time, when I say Total Eclipse coupled with Out of Nothing at All, and then Time after Time, were too much for us and they left a mark. I remember hearing them every night on the clock radio thanks to my now deceased, older brother who slept on the bottom bunk. The song claimed it’s rightful title as Greatest Ballad of all time & has been undisputed champ ever since. . Thanks for going deep on this one.

[@throbbinwoodofcoxley6830]

I was five, but you’re not lying.

[@jenniferc.6165]

Wow it was about vampires in love, I'd never have guessed that, but damn she powered that song like a lightning bolt, the music and her singing it, is what created a massive monster hit that still rocks in 2023.

[@susanpumphrey354]

This will always, always be one of my favorite songs. It's so HAUNTING. The video is utterly bonkers 😅 but the song itself, damn. Doesn't get any better, no matter what decade we are in.

[@susanrgraham]

This song came out during my senior year in high school. I still remember crying my eyes out & playing it over and over after a breakup with my boyfriend. Heck, a year later while in college, me & my friends in the dorm still blasted it through the halls occasionally - usually when someone else was dealing with heartache. Every time I hear it, it's like I'm transported to almost 40 years ago - seeing my 18 year old self back in my bedroom distraught over losing my boyfriend. Her voice and the whole song just goes through my whole body. It's so intense. Thanks for the great details on this song, Bonnie Tyler and the writer Jim Steinman too. P. S. My Sony Walkman, that I used from 1983 to 1987 while at Purdue, was the best thing to listen to music while trekking across campus. Kind of wish I had kept it!

[@cindyr8986]

Had no idea this song was about vampires!!! Wow!! Love her voice! What a powerful song. Great memories!!

[@asheimmortal]

I never knew either LOL no wonder I am the way I am! 😂 A lot of my favorite 80s songs are from 83 when I would have been 6.

[@nothingruler14All]

Bonnie is powerful when she hits the high notes, but when she goes low in that final chorus and sings, "Nothin' I can do," it sends a chill down my spine.

[@sftraub]

I have always loved Bonnie Tyler. That voice just tears at you as you listen, communicating pain, pathos, passion and longing. She truly made Total Eclipse what it is. Nobody will ever come close to what she did with the song. I liken her to the Joplin of the 80’s. It’s that same driving raw passion in both voices.

[@philadelphiagraveyardhisto7650]

Bonnie Tyler, what could we say?? Wow!!!! Epic song that only she could sing like that. A Rock Opera of epic proportions! Bonnie’s amazing voice is awe-inspiring, not to mention her beauty, she is gorgeous!! Great video, great song, beautiful voice. 👍🧡👏👏

[@mayloo2137]

I remember this song. Bonnie Tyler killed it- she had such a powerful voice. Didn't know about the song's background until now.