“Heaven” is a romantic rock ballad by Bryan Adams that first appeared on the soundtrack for the film A Night in Heaven and later included on his album Reckless (1984). It was released as the third single from form the album with the live version of the song on the B-side. The song became one of Adams’ most iconic love songs, celebrated for its emotional lyrics, soaring melody, and heartfelt vocal delivery.
Lyrically, Heaven is about finding true love and the feeling of being completely fulfilled by another person. Lines like “Baby, you’re all that I want when you’re lying here in my arms” convey deep passion and devotion, making it a staple for weddings and romantic moments.
Musically, the song features a soft piano intro, warm synthesizers, and a powerful rock ballad build-up, leading to an anthemic chorus. Adams’ raspy, heartfelt vocals add to the song’s emotional weight. The track was inspired by Journey’s song “Faithfully,” which Adams had toured with in 1983, influencing its melodic and sentimental feel.
Heaven was a huge commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985, making it one of Adams’ biggest hits. It also charted well in other countries, solidifying his reputation as a master of rock ballads.
There were two music videos: the first one, directed by Steve Barron, features Adams performing on a stage. It was shot at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and includes appearances by Lysette Anthony, Garwin Sanford and Anthony Harrison. The second video was shot at the Apollo Theatre in London, England. This version was nominated for an MTV Video Music Award for Best Cinematography.
Critically, Heaven was praised for its classic rock ballad sound and timeless romantic appeal. Over the years, it has remained a fan favorite, frequently covered and featured in films, TV shows, and special occasions. It stands as one of Bryan Adams’ most enduring and beloved songs, proving that a simple, heartfelt love song can have a lasting impact.