Meaning of the Song “What About Love” by Heart

What does “What About Love” by Heart Mean?

Released in 1985 as the lead single from their self-titled album Heart, “What About Love” is a powerful and emotionally charged ballad that explores themes of love, vulnerability, and longing. The song marked a turning point for Heart, helping to revive their career in the mid-1980s and introducing a more polished, arena-rock sound compared to their earlier folk and hard rock influences. With its soaring vocals, dramatic instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics, “What About Love” remains one of Heart’s most iconic songs.

At its core, “What About Love” is a plea for emotional recognition in a relationship that feels one-sided. The lyrics express deep frustration and sadness, as the narrator questions why their love and efforts are not being reciprocated. It captures the feeling of being overlooked or taken for granted, a sentiment that resonates with many listeners who have experienced unbalanced relationships. Ann Wilson’s powerful vocal performance amplifies the song’s emotional weight, making it an anthem for those who have ever felt neglected in love.

Lyrical Theme and Exploration

The lyrics of “What About Love” are straightforward yet deeply impactful, centered around the idea of love that is given but not returned in equal measure. The narrator asks their partner to acknowledge the love being offered and to consider the emotional cost of ignoring or neglecting it.

The song begins with a sense of longing and emotional distance:

“I’ve been lonely, I’ve been waiting for you / I’m pretending, and that’s all I can do.”

These opening lines immediately set the stage for a one-sided relationship, where the narrator is holding on despite feeling ignored. The phrase “pretending” suggests that they are putting up a front, possibly to maintain the illusion that things are okay, even though they are not.

The chorus delivers the song’s most memorable and poignant question:

“What about love? Don’t you want someone to care about you?”

This line is both a plea and a challenge, asking the other person to acknowledge the importance of love and emotional commitment. The repetition of “What about love?” reinforces the sense of urgency and desperation, as if the narrator is hoping for a breakthrough in their partner’s indifference.

Another powerful lyric in the song highlights the emotional toll of being neglected:

“When you’re alone, does it let you go? Do you think about it? Or do you let it slip away?”

Here, the song raises a universal question—does love mean as much to the other person as it does to the narrator? The idea of love “slipping away” adds an element of sorrow, as if the narrator fears that their partner’s lack of acknowledgment will ultimately lead to the end of the relationship.

Musical Composition

Musically, “What About Love” embodies the polished, dramatic style of 1980s power ballads, with its soaring melodies, anthemic choruses, and emotional depth. The production is lush and cinematic, reinforcing the intensity of the lyrics.

The song is built around a slow-burning progression, with a gentle, melancholic introduction that gradually builds to a powerful climax. The arrangement features:

A dramatic drum beat that drives the song’s intensity.
A soaring lead guitar riff that adds emotional depth.
Layered synthesizers that give the song a larger-than-life feel.
Ann Wilson’s powerhouse vocals, which elevate the song’s emotional impact.
The way the song builds in momentum and intensity mirrors the emotional arc of the lyrics—starting with quiet sadness and escalating into a passionate plea. Ann Wilson’s raw, emotive vocal performance is the song’s centerpiece, capturing both heartbreak and resilience in every note. Her voice soars effortlessly over the instrumentation, making the song feel even more urgent and powerful.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

“What About Love” played a crucial role in Heart’s resurgence during the 1980s. Prior to the release of their self-titled album, the band had struggled with declining commercial success. This song, along with other hits from the album like “These Dreams” and “Never”, helped redefine Heart’s sound and introduce them to a new generation of listeners.

The song became a major hit, reaching No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and cementing Heart’s status as one of the leading rock bands of the era. Its success also positioned the band as one of the most powerful female-led rock acts in music history, with Ann and Nancy Wilson proving that women could dominate the male-dominated rock scene with both musicianship and raw emotion.

Beyond its commercial impact, “What About Love” has remained an enduring classic. It has been featured in movies, TV shows, and playlists that celebrate power ballads and emotionally driven rock songs. The song’s universal message about feeling unappreciated in love continues to resonate, making it a go-to anthem for those who have experienced emotional neglect or one-sided relationships.

Lyrical Interpretations

While the song is most commonly interpreted as a plea for love and attention in a romantic relationship, some listeners have found deeper or alternative meanings in the lyrics.

One interpretation is that the song is about self-worth and standing up for one’s own emotional needs. The narrator’s repeated question—”What about love?”—can be seen as a realization that they deserve more, pushing back against an unfulfilling relationship.

Another interpretation is that the song could apply to any type of relationship where love and appreciation are not reciprocated, including friendships, family dynamics, or even societal neglect. The idea of longing for emotional recognition is something that extends beyond just romance, making the song’s meaning widely relatable.

Why “What About Love” Still Resonates Today

Decades after its release, “What About Love” remains a powerful anthem of emotional longing and self-reflection. The song’s themes are timeless—people will always experience unreciprocated love, emotional neglect, and the search for deeper connection. Its emotionally charged lyrics and unforgettable melody make it a standout among 1980s rock ballads, ensuring that new generations continue to discover and connect with it.

Additionally, Ann Wilson’s vocal performance remains one of the greatest in rock history. Her ability to infuse raw emotion into the song has kept it fresh and impactful, making it a song that feels just as powerful today as it did in 1985.

Conclusion: A Timeless Ballad of Longing and Strength

“What About Love” by Heart is more than just a power ballad—it is a deeply emotional song that captures the frustration, pain, and urgency of wanting to be seen and valued in love. Its haunting lyrics, powerful vocal delivery, and anthemic composition make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners facing the complexities of love and emotional connection.

Whether interpreted as a romantic plea, a song about self-worth, or a broader statement on emotional neglect, “What About Love” stands as one of Heart’s most defining and emotionally impactful songs. Its combination of vulnerability and strength has solidified its place as a song that speaks to anyone who has ever asked the painful yet universal question: Does my love matter to you?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of “What About Love” by Heart?

The song is about feeling unappreciated and longing for love and emotional recognition in a relationship. It expresses frustration and heartbreak over one-sided affection.

Is “What About Love” a breakup song?

Not exactly—it’s more about emotional neglect than an outright breakup. The lyrics suggest that the narrator is still holding on, hoping their love will be acknowledged before it’s too late.

What does the repeated question “What about love?” signify?

It’s a plea for the other person to consider the love they are being given and recognize its value. The repetition adds urgency and emotional weight to the message.

Why is the song so powerful emotionally?

Ann Wilson’s soaring vocals, combined with the dramatic instrumentation, create a sense of deep emotional longing. The lyrics tap into universal feelings of love, disappointment, and the need to be seen.

Did “What About Love” perform well on the charts?

Yes, it was a major hit, reaching No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It helped revive Heart’s career in the 1980s and introduced them to a new audience.

Is the song about romantic love only?

While the lyrics focus on romantic relationships, the song can also apply to friendships, family dynamics, or any situation where someone feels emotionally overlooked. It’s about seeking acknowledgment and validation.

What makes Ann Wilson’s vocal performance stand out?

Her voice carries a mix of power and vulnerability, perfectly matching the song’s themes. She conveys raw emotion with every note, making the song deeply impactful.

What role do the instrumentals play in enhancing the song’s meaning?

The dramatic drums, soaring guitar, and layered synthesizers create an intense, anthemic sound. This reinforces the urgency of the lyrics and the emotional plea for love.

How does “What About Love” compare to other Heart songs?

It leans more into the power ballad style that defined their 1980s resurgence, unlike their earlier folk and hard rock influences. The song’s emotional intensity makes it one of their most memorable hits.

Why does “What About Love” still resonate today?

Its themes of love, longing, and emotional neglect are timeless. The song continues to speak to anyone who has ever questioned whether their love truly matters to someone else.