“Make Me Lose Control” by Eric Carmen is a classic soft rock ballad that became a significant hit in the late 1980s. Released in May 1988 with “That’s Rock ‘n’ Roll” on the B-side, the song showcases Carmen’s gift for crafting emotionally resonant, nostalgic pop songs with lush arrangements and heartfelt lyrics. It marked a triumphant return to the charts for the singer-songwriter, blending 1960s-inspired melodies with contemporary production.
Eric Carmen, best known as the frontman for The Raspberries and for his solo hits like “All By Myself” and “Hungry Eyes” (featured in Dirty Dancing), recorded “Make Me Lose Control” as part of a resurgence in his career during the late 1980s. Written by Carmen and Dean Pitchford (lyricist of Fame and Footloose), the song was released as a standalone single in 1988. Its release came on the heels of “Hungry Eyes”, which had been a major hit earlier that year, boosting Carmen’s visibility and popularity. In June 1988, the song was included on the compilation album, “The Best of Eric Carmen”
The song’s lyrics are a celebration of youthful love and the nostalgia of carefree summer nights. Carmen paints a vivid picture of a romantic moment enhanced by music and the emotional connection between two people. The references to classic rock and roll acts like Elvis Presley and the nostalgic tone give the song a wistful, timeless quality. The lyrics evoke a sense of innocence and passion, tapping into the universal experience of falling in love and the power of music to amplify those feelings.
“Make Me Lose Control” blends 1980s soft rock with a clear homage to the lush, harmony-driven pop of the 1960s. The backing vocals recall the girl groups of the 1960s, adding a warm and nostalgic texture. The production features shimmering keyboards, a steady drumbeat, and layered string arrangements that heighten the emotional intensity. Carmen’s passionate delivery adds depth to the song, conveying both longing and exuberance.
“Make Me Lose Control” was a commercial hit, peaking at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 1988. It also reached the top of the Adult Contemporary charts both in the United States and Canada, further cementing its status as a favorite among fans of romantic, melodic pop music.
Although “Make Me Lose Control” was Carmen’s last major chart success, it remains a standout in his discography and a favorite among fans of 1980s pop and soft rock. The song’s romantic, nostalgic quality has kept it alive in retrospectives of the era, and it continues to be played on classic hits and adult contemporary radio stations. In 2024, the song was featured on the official soundtrack of the Marvel Cinematic Universe film Deadpool & Wolverine.