The Empowering Anthem of Starship’s “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us Now”

Released in 1987, “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us Now” by Starship is an anthemic rock ballad that embodies themes of resilience, determination, and enduring love. Featured on the soundtrack for the film Mannequin and included in their album Knee Deep in the Hoopla, the song has become a quintessential example of 1980s pop rock, celebrated for its uplifting message and powerful delivery.

Musically, “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us Now” is characterized by its energetic rock instrumentation and soaring melody. The song opens with a strong piano line that sets the stage for the powerful vocals that follow. The arrangement features prominent electric guitars, a driving drum beat, and rich orchestral elements that contribute to the song’s grand and uplifting sound. The dynamic production, overseen by Peter Wolf and co-produced by Michael McDonald and David Jenkins, enhances the song’s anthemic quality, creating a sound that is both memorable and impactful.

Lyrically, “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us Now” conveys a message of unwavering determination and commitment. The song’s verses describe a relationship that remains strong despite external challenges and obstacles. The chorus, with its repeated declaration “Nothin’s gonna stop us now,” serves as a powerful affirmation of perseverance and the strength of the bond between the song’s protagonists. The lyrics reflect themes of overcoming adversity and celebrating the unbreakable nature of love and unity.

Mickey Thomas’s vocal performance in “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us Now” is both passionate and commanding. His powerful and emotive delivery adds depth to the song’s message, capturing the sense of resolve and determination that the lyrics convey. Thomas’s ability to convey the song’s themes through his vocal performance is a testament to his skill as a vocalist and the overall effectiveness of the song.

The music video for “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us Now,” directed by Marty Callner, complements the song’s empowering message with its visually engaging imagery. The video features footage of the band performing the song interspersed with scenes from the film Mannequin, highlighting the connection between the song and the film’s themes of love and perseverance. The combination of performance footage and narrative elements in the video enhances the song’s overall impact and appeal.

The success of “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us Now” was significant for Starship and contributed to the band’s continued prominence in the pop rock genre. The song reached the top of the charts, earning numerous accolades and widespread radio play. Its popularity helped to solidify Starship’s place in the 1980s music scene and demonstrated the power of music to inspire and uplift.

In conclusion, Starship’s “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us Now” is an empowering anthem that captures the essence of resilience and determination. Its dynamic musical arrangement, inspiring lyrics, and powerful vocal performance make it a standout example of 1980s pop rock. The song’s enduring appeal and impact highlight its significance as a classic piece of music that continues to resonate with listeners and serve as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.